Grand Forks Paraglider Uninjured After Striking Power Line, Plunging into Red River

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – A paraglider miraculously escaped serious injury Tuesday evening after striking a power line and falling into the Red River near the Riverside Dam. The incident, which occurred around 8:30 p.m., prompted a rapid response from local emergency services, praised by witnesses at the scene.

The motorized paraglider was in flight when it made contact with overhead power lines, causing the aircraft to plummet into the river. Witnesses Dusty Howlett and Nate Millard, who were at the Riverside Dam, observed the dramatic event unfold. "I was caught off guard because I didn’t see the power lines there either," Howlett stated, adding, "So immediately, I stopped filming, and then I called 911."

Howlett and Millard quickly ran to the boat ramp, where they were relieved to see the paraglider's head emerge from the water. Despite the initial shock and concern, the pilot was able to stay afloat. The Grand Forks Fire Department (GFFD) confirmed that the paraglider was uninjured in the crash.

Emergency responders, including the Grand Forks Fire Department, police department, and water rescue team, arrived on the scene with remarkable speed. "The police department, the fire department, and the water rescue team—they were here within three minutes," Howlett recounted, commending their efficiency. "Props to them because it was really impressive and they’re really good at their jobs. I’m just really grateful the guy is okay."

Upon arrival, rescue crews launched a boat to reach the pilot, who was found tangled in the paragliding equipment. They successfully untangled him and assisted him to shore. The GFFD utilized two engines, one ladder truck, one command vehicle, two rescue boats, and 11 personnel in the operation, also receiving aid from the Grand Forks Police Department, East Grand Forks Fire Department, East Grand Forks Police Department, and Altru Ambulance.

Following the incident, the Grand Forks Fire Department issued a reminder to the public about water safety, emphasizing the importance of wearing life jackets when operating equipment near or over water, even if direct water entry is not intended. The identity of the uninjured paraglider has not been released.