THIS is the terrifying moment a paraglider crashes into a tree after using a banned “speedwing”.
Dramatic footage filmed from a nearby ski lift shows the paraglider soaring above Mammoth Mountain, California – but the high was short-lived.
The reckless thrill-seeker suddenly lost height and crashed to the ground.
Video shows the paraglider skidding some 20 ft through the snow.
They then collide with a tree, causing their skis to fly off.
The person who filmed the footage from Cloud 9 ski lift quickly called for the ski patrol.
Help arrived a short time later.
They said they heard screaming from the injured paraglider as they lay in the snow.
Ski resort spokesperson Emily van Greuning told SFGate that the person involved had been rushed to hospital on Tuesday.
James Bradley, director of the US Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, said the person seemed to be using a “speedwing”
A speedwing is a small version of a paraglider.
The wing is often used by skiers and snowboarders, but the dangerous toy is widely banned.
Bradley said the skier probably made a mistake while using the equipment.
He said: “I’m a little mystified by what happened, because it looked at a glance that he could have turned left sooner and gotten more ground clearance.”
Using a “speedwing” or other paragliding equipment is banned at the California resort, as well as at most other ski destinations across the US.
The identity of the injured paraglider remains unknown.
No details have been released about their injuries.
Director Bradley said he would investigate the paraglider, saying they were putting the sport at risk.
He said: “We will pursue our usual disciplinary process with them, because they’re putting all of us at risk by not respecting the rules of the mountain.”
The accident follows a mysterious death at a ski resort in West Virginia on January 4.
The tragedy unfolded at the Timberline Mountain ski resort, where a person was found dead.
The cause of death remains a mystery, however officials said the fatality was under investigation.
They announced the death with “profound sadness.”
“We want to extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones affected by this devastating loss,” the resort said in a Facebook post.
“Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our guests. We would like to thank our ski patrol, mountain staff, and local emergency services for their swift and professional response.
