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London 2012 Bond stuntman killed

ESPN staff
August 15, 2013
Stuntman Mark Sutton, who doubled for Daniel Craig's James Bond at the London 2012 opening ceremony, has tragically died © Getty Images
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The stuntman who parachuted into the Olympic Stadium as James Bond during the opening ceremony of London 2012 has been killed in an accident.

Mark Sutton, 42, died while wing-diving near Martigny in Switzerland on Wednesday. It is thought he died after crashing into a ridge of rock, although police have not yet confirmed the cause of death.

Sutton, a former army officer, doubled for Daniel Craig's Bond, memorably entering the Olympic Stadium from a helicopter with another stuntman playing the Queen in Danny Boyle's showpiece.

Wing-divers wear specially-designed wingsuits which allow them to glide through the air at high speeds, with a parachute opening for landing.

Mark Sutton was 42 © Getty Images
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It is believed Sutton intended to land at a village close to the French border after jumping from a helicopter at 3300m (10,826ft). He is reported to have suffered fatal injuries after hitting a ridge of rock however, with rescuers believing he died on impact.

The accident occurred on the first day of a three-day wing-diving event with 19 other experienced wingsuit pilots. Police have opened an investigation with a formal identification of the body under way.

Gary Connery, the stuntman who filled in for the Queen alongside Sutton during the Olympic ceremony, posted what appeared to be a grieving message on Twitter. He wrote: "All you jumpers/flyers out there, stay safe, make wise choices and know your limits and your locations. Live to tell your stories. One love."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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