(Malibu, December 21, 2025) – Two Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies rescued two paragliders from drowning Friday after they fell into the ocean near Malibu, california, authorities said.
Two deputies swiftly entered the water and freed two paragliders whose safety equipment had become entangled, preventing them from surfacing.
- Two Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies rescued two paragliders from the ocean near Malibu.
- The deputies swam approximately 75 feet to reach the paragliders,who were entangled in their equipment.
- Both paragliders are expected to fully recover from the incident.
Bodycam footage showed the deputies responding to a call of two victims in distress and instantly entering the water, yelling to the paragliders to “Hang on!” according to the sheriff’s department.
“Without hesitation and fully aware of the danger, LA County Sheriff’s Department deputies Matkin and Grigoryan removed their department-issued gear and jumped in the water,” the department said in a statement shared with Fox News Digital.
The deputies swam roughly 75 feet to reach a man and a woman whose feet had become entangled in their heavy safety equipment, which was pulling them under the water. The deputies were able to cut the paragliders free with their knives.
Why It Matters
Did you know? Paragliding accidents are rare, but can occur due to disorientation in conditions like fog. Swift response from rescuers is critical for survival.
this rescue highlights the quick thinking and bravery of law enforcement officers responding to emergency situations. While paragliding is a popular recreational activity, incidents like this underscore the inherent risks involved, notably in coastal areas prone to fog and unpredictable conditions. The deputies’ swift action likely prevented a tragic outcome, demonstrating the vital role first responders play in ensuring public safety.
Deputy Christopher Matkin described the rescue as “tense,” explaining that the frantic paragliders were pulling them under in their panic. “We were able to calm them down,” he added at a press conference.
Deputy Sevak Grigoryan said there wasn’t time to overthink the situation. “It was just, ‘we gotta act, and we gotta to act now,” he said.
The sheriff’s department stated that the paragliders likely descended into the ocean’s fog bank, becoming disoriented and crashing into the water. “And that’s where it appears they became disoriented and crashed into the ocean,” a third deputy said.
Both paragliders are expected to fully recover, according to authorities.
Pro tip Always check weather conditions, including visibility, before paragliding. Be aware of potential hazards like fog and strong currents.
“This rescue demonstrates the courage, quick thinking and selfless dedication of LASD deputies, who routinely place themselves in harm’s way to protect and save lives,” the department said. “Deputies Matkin and Grigoryan’s decisive actions under hazardous conditions exemplify the Sheriff’s Department’s commitment to public safety and service to the community.”
“Without hesitation and fully aware of the danger… deputies Matkin and Grigoryan removed their department-issued gear and jumped in the wat
