Two Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies have been recognized for their quick response in rescuing two paragliders from drowning near the Malibu coast. This incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on a Friday along Carbon Beach.
Rescue Incident Overview
The male and female paragliders lost their way due to suddenly changing weather conditions. Initially, they launched their paragliding adventure in clear skies, but fog quickly set in, disorienting them.
Response by Law Enforcement
When the deputies, Christopher Matkin and Sevak Grigoryan, received the distress call, they immediately proceeded to the scene. The visibility was severely limited; they could barely discern the parachute shapes through the dense fog.
- Location: Carbon Beach, Malibu
- Time: Approximately 12:30 p.m.
Rescue Efforts
Upon reaching the water’s edge, the deputies spotted the victims struggling in the ocean. The weight of the paragliding equipment had begun to pull them under while cords tangled around their feet.
Without hesitation, Matkin and Grigoryan raced into the water. Body camera footage captured their efforts as they shed their gear to focus on the rescue.
The deputies quickly utilized knives to cut the tangled cords. Matkin described the situation as tense, noting that the victims were pulling the rescuers down as they fought to stay afloat.
Successful Outcome
Despite the challenges, the deputies were able to calm the paragliders and safely bring them ashore. Fortunately, neither victim sustained injuries, and both were treated at the scene before being released.
Grigoryan reflected on the incident, acknowledging the risks involved. He expressed gratitude for their teamwork, stating, “It definitely could have gone south.”
The swift actions of these two deputies not only saved lives but also highlighted the importance of quick thinking and effective communication in emergency situations.
