Los Angeles Deputies Brave Foggy Ocean to Rescue Entangled Paragliders Near Malibu
MALIBU, Calif. — Two Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies plunged into the fog-shrouded ocean near Malibu on Friday to rescue two paragliders who had become disoriented and trapped in their heavy safety equipment, a dramatic operation captured on bodycam video. The deputies, Christopher Matkin and Sevak Grigoryan, responded swiftly after receiving a distress call about the victims struggling in the water. Stripping off their department-issued gear, they swam approximately 75 feet into the chilly surf to reach the man and woman whose feet were entangled in the paragliding equipment, which was dragging them under.
The deputies used knives to carefully cut the safety harnesses, freeing the panicked paragliders who had been pulling the rescuers underwater in their frantic attempts to stay afloat. Deputy Matkin described the rescue as “tense,” noting that calming the victims was crucial to preventing further danger. “We were able to calm them down,” he said during a press conference, emphasizing the urgency and risk involved. Deputy Grigoryan added, “It was just, ‘We gotta act, and we gotta act now.’”
The incident occurred as the paragliders descended into a thick fog bank over the ocean, causing them to become disoriented and crash into the water. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department praised the deputies’ quick thinking and courage, stating that their actions exemplify the department’s dedication to public safety and community service. Both paragliders are expected to make a full recovery.
This rescue highlights the dangers associated with ocean activities near Malibu, where sudden weather changes and fog can create hazardous conditions. The California Department of Parks and Recreation advises water sports enthusiasts to remain vigilant and prepared for rapidly shifting coastal weather patterns. The swift response by deputies Matkin and Grigoryan aligns with the standards set by the Federal Emergency Management Agency for rapid intervention in water rescues.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department frequently undertakes perilous operations to protect residents and visitors alike, often under challenging circumstances. Their commitment is reflected in training protocols recommended by the U.S. Fire Administration for swift water rescue and emergency response. The department’s use of body-worn cameras, which documented this rescue, also supports transparency and accountability in law enforcement activities.
Incidents like these underscore the importance of public awareness and preparedness for outdoor recreational activities. The National Park Service provides guidance on safety precautions for coastal and ocean adventures, emphasizing the need for proper equipment and situational awareness to prevent accidents. Authorities continue to urge paragliders and other thrill-seekers to monitor weather conditions closely and to carry safety devices that can aid in emergencies.
As the holiday season approaches, local law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in ensuring public safety across California’s diverse landscapes. The heroic actions of deputies Matkin and Grigoryan serve as a reminder of the risks first responders face daily and their unwavering commitment to saving lives under any conditions.
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