UPDATE: Two Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies have made headlines after a dramatic rescue of two paragliders who crashed into the ocean off the coast of Malibu. The incident, which unfolded around 12:30 p.m. on July 14, 2023, has been described as harrowing and life-threatening.
The paragliders—a man and a woman—found themselves in perilous conditions when fog rolled in unexpectedly, causing them to become disoriented and ultimately plunge into the water near Carbon Beach. As the weight of their equipment began dragging them down, they struggled for survival amidst the crashing waves.
Deputies Christopher Matkin and Sevak Grigoryan responded swiftly to the emergency call. “When we first got there, the fog was very dense. We could only make out the outline of the parachute,” Matkin explained in a recent interview. Their quick thinking and decisive action were crucial in the rescue operation.
Upon reaching the ocean’s edge, the deputies wasted no time. Body camera footage reveals the moment they dropped their gear and sprinted into the surf. Once they reached the stranded paragliders, they faced an intense situation. “It was a tense situation because both of the victims were pulling down on everyone and dragging us under,” Matkin recounted. Armed with knives, they began cutting the tangled cords that trapped the victims.
Grigoryan added, “We were able to calm them down, and we were able to get them out of the water safely without any injuries.” Their heroic efforts ensured that both paragliders were treated at the scene and later released, marking a successful outcome in an otherwise dire scenario.
The emotional impact of the rescue was palpable, with both deputies receiving heartfelt thanks from the victims. “It definitely could have gone south,” Grigoryan stated. “But luckily, both of us were on the same page.”
This incredible rescue showcases the bravery and dedication of law enforcement officials and serves as a reminder of the risks associated with outdoor activities. As conditions can change rapidly, individuals engaging in such sports must remain vigilant and prepared for emergencies.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of safety precautions while paragliding, especially in unpredictable weather. As more details emerge, the community has rallied around the deputies, celebrating their quick response and skill in averting potential tragedy.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
