Hot-air balloon crash in Brazil kills at least 8 after fire breaks out mid-flight
A tragic incident occurred in Brazil on Saturday morning when a hot-air balloon carrying 21 people caught fire and crashed, resulting in the death of at least eight individuals. The Santa Catarina military fire brigade reported that the crash took place in Santa Catarina, a state in the southern region of Brazil, after a fire broke out in the basket, prompting the pilot to make an emergency landing.
Footage shared on social media depicts thick black smoke engulfing the deflated balloon as it plummeted to the ground in a wooded area near the town of Praia Grande, a popular destination for hot-air ballooning enthusiasts. Despite the harrowing circumstances, 13 individuals, including the pilot, managed to survive the crash and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment of their injuries.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that some of the survivors were able to escape the burning balloon by jumping out before it crashed. Lt. Col. Zevir Cipriano Jr. lamented the tragic outcome, stating that four individuals perished in the fire while another four leaped from the balloon during its descent.
Santa Catarina Governor Jorginho Mello expressed his condolences in a video message, acknowledging the gravity of the situation and pledging government support for the victims and their families. The civil police force chief, Ulisses Gabriel, shared the heartbreaking detail that three of the deceased individuals died while embracing each other, underscoring the emotional toll of the tragedy.
The ill-fated hot-air balloon ride, priced at $100 per person, was intended to last 45 minutes and reach an altitude of 3,280 feet. The company operating the balloon, Sobrevoar, emphasized that all necessary precautions were taken and their experienced pilot followed recommended procedures to ensure the safety of passengers. Despite their best efforts, the company announced the indefinite suspension of their operations following the incident.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva extended his solidarity to the families of the victims and offered federal assistance for the investigation into the crash. This unfortunate event comes on the heels of another hot-air balloon accident in São Paulo, Brazil, just a week prior, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries.
As authorities delve into the circumstances surrounding the tragic crash, the community mourns the loss of lives and contemplates the inherent risks associated with air travel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected individuals as they navigate this challenging time.
The Associated Press and Reuters have provided valuable contributions to this report, shedding light on the details of this devastating incident.
