Deadly Parasail Accident Kills Two on Ocean Isle Beach | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

September 8, 2009

Blog, Wrongful Death in VA

Officials with North Carolina Wildlife released the identities of two people killed in a parasailing accident at Ocean Isle Beach.  Officer Long said the women killed in the accident were Cynthia Woodcock, 60, of Kernersville, and Lorrie Shoup, 55, of Granby, Colo.

Investigators with the U.S. Coast Guard have initially reported that a rope connecting the parasail to the boat disconnected. Further details of the accident were not specified.

According to eyewitnesses of the tragic accident mentioned that the winds were gusting up dangerously and the wench motor looked as if it had failed to pull them in causing the cable to snap, sending the unsuspecting victims plunging to their death.

The women were on a trip with Cynthia Woodcock’s aunt, Sybil Carpenter, of Cary, and another friend, said Tyisha Woodcock, daughter-in-law of Cynthia Woodock. An outgoing message left on the phone at N.C. Watersports, which operated the boat and parasail, said it was closed for the summer.

First, do your research. Unfortunately, the parasailing industry has no official licensing requirements, industry standards or qualifications, so your safety directly depends on the parasailing company you choose. Use these helpful tips when preparing for your next parasailing adventure:

  •     Ask how long the company has been in business.
  •     The parasailing company you do business with should be licensed by both the state and city or   county and exist in a well-established location.
  •     The Parasail Safety Council recommends you ensure that the boat’s captain is a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain.