Brazil Balloon Cr.ash
Balloon Fire and Crash
A hot air balloon with 21 passengers caught fire mid-flight over Praia Grande, Brazil, causing eight deaths and thirteen injuries. The pilot, a survivor, said, “a fire started inside the basket,” leading him to order passengers to jump as the balloon neared the ground. Some escaped, but others couldn’t, and the balloon later fell after losing lift.
Cause Under Investigation
Officials said strong winds during takeoff may have caused a gas leak, sparking the fire. The pilot suspected the fire began from “a backup burner stored in the basket.” Despite flame-retardant materials, the fire spread quickly.
Victims and Response
Among the dead were two couples and a mother and daughter. Survivors were hospitalized. Police noted, “three of the dead were discovered embracing one another.” Emergency services responded promptly, and the area was secured for safety.
