Paraglider dies after apparent in-flight emergency crash on Fresno County mountain
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- A paraglider crashed after an apparent in-flight emergency shortly after takeoff.
- Responders reached the remote, brush-covered crash site and found the pilot dead.
- Crews used hand tools and chainsaws while a CHP helicopter lowered a paramedic.
A paraglider died Sunday after crashing into a remote, brush-covered area in eastern Fresno County shortly after takeoff near Tollhouse Road.
The incident happened at 11:19 a.m. on Burrough Mountain.
Crews responded at 11:19 a.m. after initially reporting that a hang glider had struck a tree.
Responders later learned that a pilot had experienced an apparent in-flight emergency shortly after takeoff and crashed into a heavily vegetated area.
Cal Fire spokesperson Zach Irion said several other paragliders were at the launch site preparing for flights when the incident occurred.
Irion said some individuals, including an off-duty fire captain from the Bay Area, hiked down to the crash site to assist the pilot.
The pilot was pronounced dead.
Irion said first responders had to use hand tools and chainsaws to cut a pathway through dense brush and trees, clearing an area around the victim.
The California Highway Patrol helicopter arrived and lowered a paramedic down for a recovery.
Authorities have not yet determined what caused the pilot to lose control.
This story was originally published May 31, 2026 at 8:13 PM.
