Among adventure enthusiasts, paragliding is one of the most sought after sports. However, there are several risks associated with the sport. There have been several cases where paragliders have been involved in dangerous incidents. In a similar incident, paramotor pilot and YouTuber Anthony Vella was seriously injured after his vehicle crashed in Enchanted Rock State Park, northwest Texas, United States. He suffered fractures to his neck, back and pelvis.
The accident was caught on camera. In a YouTube video of the incident titled 'Paramoter Crash ALMOST Ended My Life', the 33-year-old said he lost control at a height of 25 to 30 meters above the ground while testing the BGD Luna 3, which was traveling at 50 km/h.
The now viral video shows the man's attempts to control the plane. However, everything goes in vain and he falls to the ground. The footage also shows him screaming in pain and asking Siri to call 911. Later in the clip, he said the accident occurred because he “missed a small pension button” during pre-start checks.
According to a report in TMZtwo eyewitnesses assisted Mr Vella and contacted medical professionals and his wife Leandra. At the hospital, the man was diagnosed with a broken neck, back, pelvis and a broken arm. All of his injuries required surgery.
His wife thanked his friends and followers for the support and wishes. “We have felt the love and support from all of you and will never be able to express how much it means to him, me and our family. Anthony is very excited to get back to his strong and active self,” said Leandra. on Youtube.
Moreover, a GoFundMe page has also been set up for the YouTuber. An update on the page said: “Anthony had surgery on his elbow/arm on Tuesday. Multiple rods and screws were used and he is expected to make a full recovery with extensive physiotherapy. The surgery will stabilize the fractures in his neck and back . is today. Again, your support is greatly appreciated. He will be in the hospital for at least 2.5 weeks doing PT.”
In another update two days ago, the organizer wrote, “Anthony had all four surgeries this week and everything went well. Thanks again for the prayers and support.”