ABERDEEN, S.D.(Hub City Radio)- On Wednesday, Brown County Communications received a 911 call reporting a paraglider accident that occured northeast of Aberdeen.

The accident involved Mayor Travis Schaunaman and his two children.  Mayor Schaunaman suffered non-life-threatening injuries.  Unfortunately the accident killed his 8-year-old son while the 10-year-old daughter only suffered minor injuries.

The Brown County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Highway Patrol in conjunction with the FAA and the NTSB are investigating the accident.

They also got help from the Frederick Fire Department, Aberdeen Medics, and Careflight.

The Brown County Sheriff’s Office offered their condolences to the Schaunaman family and pray for the community to come together in support of them.  They also encourage everyone to give them privacy at this time.

Aberdeen City Manager Dave McNeil released a statement on behalf of the city of Aberdeen wrote:

“The City Hall team and City Manager Dave McNeil ask our community to please keep Mayor Schaunaman and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate an unimaginable and deeply difficult time.
At the request of the Mayor and his family, we ask everyone to respect their privacy and give them the space they need to grieve. No details regarding this tragic event will be shared at this time.
We understand that many in our community care deeply about the Mayor and his family and will want to express their concern and support. The most meaningful way we can support them right now is by honoring their wishes, respecting their privacy, and refraining from speculation or seeking additional information.
Please keep the Mayor, his family, and all those impacted in your thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. We ask our community and members of the media to approach this situation with compassion, patience, and the utmost respect.”

Senator John Thune posted on X the following:

“Kimberley and I are praying for Aberdeen Mayor Travis Schaunaman and his entire family after yesterday’s tragic accident.”

Senator Mike Rounds posted on X the following:

“Please join me in praying for Aberdeen Mayor Travis Schaunaman and his family. The power of community is strong in the wake of a tragedy, and we know the Aberdeen community is already wrapping their arms around the family.”

More updates to come.