Paraglider hits hilltop near San Jacinto

A woman paragliding near the Soboba Indian Reservation in San Jacinto struck a hillside today, suffering extensive injuries.

The accident was reported about 11 a.m. in the 200 block of Soboba Road, just north of the Soboba Springs Country Club, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

An agency spokeswoman said the victim, whose identity was not released, impacted rugged terrain hard, leaving her with unspecified injuries and unable to walk without assistance.

There was no word on whether the woman was an amateur or experienced paraglider.

A rescue helicopter was dispatched to the scene, and the crew hoisted the woman to safety, flying her to an ambulance parked on the reservation, which then took her to a trauma center.

The victim had departed Soboba Paragliding, according to the fire department. The facility requires training before allowing visitors to pilot their own rig, which consists of an overhead wing-like chute that enables users to soar, relying on thermals and winds for lift.