ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta confirmed “Patriot,” the remote-controlled hot air balloon stolen from its warehouse on Thanksgiving Day, has returned.
Albuquerque police recovered the balloon envelope, basket, remote control and inflation fan earlier this week. Balloon Fiesta officials stated they found minimal damage and expect Patriot will fly next year.
“We are immensely grateful for the support from the Albuquerque Police Department and the public throughout this investigation,” said Julie Morgas Baca, executive director of Balloon Fiesta. “This happy ending would not have been possible without an anonymous tip leading detectives to the suspect and stolen equipment.”…