From The FWC
Two Indiana teenagers were seriously injured in a parasailing accident Monday in Panama City Beach.
Sidney Renea Good (DOB 03/17/96), Roanoake, Ind., and Alexis Fairchild, from Huntington, Ind., were para sailing in a tandem harness over the Gulf of Mexico off Panama City Beach when an afternoon storm developed with strong winds, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officials.
These winds kept the chute aloft and several attempts to winch the riders back onto the vessel failed. The anchor was set to keep the boat from being pulled onto shore. The towline detached and the riders were helpless to control the chute.
The riders then impacted power lines, buildings and parked vehicles. Good and Fairchild were transported to Bay Medical-Sacred Heart in Panama City.
According to FWC investigators, the girls are in critical condition. FWC is continuing to investigate the accident.
From The Bay County Sheriff’s Office
On 07/01/2013 at 1601hrs I responded to 4715 Thomas Drive (The Commodores Condos) in reference to a medical emergency.
Upon arrival, I spoke with several witnesses who stated they observed a para sail carrying 2 hite females break free from the boat towing it, collide with the Commodore Condo, continue over the condo, hit the power lines along Thomas Drive, and become caught by southbound wind that caused them to hit several cars in the park ing lot, and land on the East side of the parking lot of the condo.
I assisted EMS and the Bay County fire department (Engine 102) in securing the scene so that both subjects could be removed from the scene.
The two subjects, identified as Sidney Good and Alexis Fairchild, were transported to Bay Medical Center. The Captain operating the boat towing the parasail was identified as Tyler Churchwell. FWC and the U.S. Coast Guard responded to process the scene and the investigation was turned over to these agencies.
No further information at this time. Case pending.