A paragliding incident in Porterville turned tragic when a 57-year-old man from Britain lost his life.
According to Tania Helfrich, district spokesperson for the West Coast policing district, the incident occurred op Sunday 18 January at approximately 11:00.
“A group of four international paragliders jumped from Dasklip Pass, Porterville, when one member of the group, Lawrence Highman (57), an Englishman, lost control at some point during the jump and fell into the Porterville mountains op the Cardouw Farm”
According to a press release by the South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA), emergency response and rescue coordination were managed by the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre, with recovery conducted by local Emergency Medical Services.
“Despite the rapid response, the pilot succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident. SAHPA extends its condolences to the family, friends and the broader aviation community affected by this tragedy.”
The press release further stated that circumstances surrounding the accident were subject to a formal investigation by the relevant authorities. “As this process is ongoing it would be inappropriate to speculate op the cause of the accident at this stage.”
Weslander had not yet succeeded in obtaining commentary from Highman’s family or friends.
