8-Year-Old Killed in Paragliding Crash Northeast of Aberdeen, Father and Sibling Injured

Steve Jurrens
2 days ago
1 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Paraglider in a green jacket glides over grassy hills under a blue sky with scattered clouds. — ***The photo is a representation of the story subject, NOT the actual paraglider involved***

Northeast Radio SD News – Aberdeen, SD - Authorities have released new details following Wednesday’s paragliding accident northeast of Aberdeen, confirming that an 8‑year‑old child was killed and two others injured.

According to an updated media release from the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred on Aug. 19 after dispatchers received a 911 call reporting a paraglider down. Multiple agencies responded, including the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, Frederick Fire Department, Aberdeen Medics, Careflight, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol.

City of Aberdeen statement on blue background urges prayers and privacy for Mayor Schaunaman and family after a difficult time

The paraglider involved Travis Schaunaman and his two children, ages 10 and 8. Schaunaman sustained serious but non‑life‑threatening injuries, while his 10‑year‑old child received minor injuries. The 8‑year‑old was deceased at the scene, according to the sheriff’s office.

Federal investigators have been notified. The FAA and NTSB, along with the South Dakota Highway Patrol and Brown County Sheriff’s Office, will continue the investigation into what caused the crash.

In the release, the sheriff’s office extended condolences to the family and asked the community to respect their privacy during what it described as a “tragic time.”