Dramatic Rescue at Rincon Point Saves Injured Paraglider

RINCON POINT, Calif. – In a dramatic rescue operation on Wednesday, emergency responders successfully retrieved a female paraglider who had crashed onto cliffs at Rincon Point, becoming trapped on a precarious brush-covered overhang.

The incident unfolded when the Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District received a distress call reporting a paraglider had fallen, sustaining injuries that included a broken leg and ankle. Promptly responding to the scene around 3:50 p.m., first responders utilized specialized rope techniques to secure the injured woman from further danger of falling.

A critical role was played by a Santa Barbara County Fire Department helicopter, which skillfully maneuvered to reach the remote and rugged terrain. Working against challenging conditions, the helicopter crew executed a precise extraction, carefully lifting the injured paraglider to safety.

“The bystander who alerted us to the paraglider’s location was instrumental in guiding our response,” shared officials from the Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District. The rugged cliffs of Rincon Bluffs posed significant challenges, underscoring the expertise and coordinated effort required for a successful rescue.

Following the extraction, the woman was swiftly transported by ambulance to Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara for urgent medical care. Details of her condition were not immediately released, but the coordinated efforts of the first responders ensured she received prompt and professional assistance.

Incidents like these highlight the bravery and preparedness of our local emergency services, who continually train and prepare for such challenging rescues. Rincon Point, renowned for its scenic beauty and popular among paragliders, serves as a reminder of both the exhilaration and risks associated with extreme sports.

As the community reflects on this rescue, gratitude extends to all involved in ensuring the safety and well-being of those who explore our coastal cliffs.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Carpinteria-Summerland Fire Protection District