Accident witness asks city for parasailing regulation

After last week's parasail accident on Clearwater Beach, a witness to the incident is asking city leaders to investigate.

Michael Pinson attended the Clearwater City Council meeting and spoke about the incident that seriously injured Alejandra White on Sunday.

Pinson asked leaders to create a task force for parasailing safety. He said companies should have annual inspections and a second safety line in case the first one breaks.

He also believes businesses should be fined if they break regulations.

White suffered serious head trauma and was airlifted from Sand Key Park to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg. She is listed in critical condition.

According to Clearwater police, White and Shaun Ladd, both 27, were parasailing with the Sky Screamer Parasailing Company south of Pier 60 when the winds begin to strengthen.

Police say Ladd broke free from the line and fell into the water. He was able to swim to shore after the accident, where he received treatment and was released.

White, however, had more difficulty returning safely to the ground when she couldn't break free from the parasail.

Officials say she was dropped into the water, lifted back up, and then dragged along the beach, hitting umbrellas and ultimately a 4x4 pole that was holding up a volleyball net.