Investigation into tragic paragliding accident at Gormanston

The motorised paraglider, in which Ratoath man Mick Walsh died last June, entered a rapid spiralling descent before inmpacting in shallow waters, according to an Air Accident Investigation Unit probe. 

Mr Walsh (45) of Ratoath was using the powered paraglider when he got into difficulties and crashed into the sea at Ben Head, near the Defence Forces Gormanston Camp on Saturday 4th June last year.

According to the report, which was published this week, the paramotor was foot-launched by the Mr Walsh from Gormanston Beach. Witnesses observed it climbing out over the sea where it was seen performing a number of orbits and steep turns during which the paramotor would descend to the surface and climb back to its original altitude. It was then observed entering a rapid spiralling descent. It impacted in shallow water approximately 150 metres from the shoreline.

Mick Walsh was an experienced paraglider and had travelled the world over the previous 20 years participating in the sport.

He was a popular member of the Ratoath Communhity and worked in the construction business.