Paraglider Rescued from Torrey Pines

Emergency crews rushed to Torrey Pines Saturday after receiving reports that a paraglider had crashed into the rocks.

The incident happened around 3:30 p.m. near the Torrey Pines Gliderport, close to an area known as Rhino Horn.

Paragliders say they typically try to stay away from that particular area because conditions are dangerous there.

One witness told NBC 7 that one of the paraglider’s wings collapsed. He was unable to reopen it, sending him on a slow, downward spiral.

Another paraglider who saw the crash told NBC 7 he noticed the victim in the air right before the accident and said the paraglider was in a very difficult position.

A rescue helicopter was dispatched to the scene to assist. Rescuers were able to hike down the area where the victim crashed and hoist him out by helicopter, officials said.

According to lifeguards, the paraglider sustained serious injuries, but was conscious and breathing when help arrived. He was airlifted to Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla. His currently condition is unknown.

NBC 7 spoke to friends of the victim on Saturday who said the paraglider around 80 years old. Friends said he is highly experienced at the sport.
 

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