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Tragedy Strikes Brazilian Hot-Air Balloon Ride, Leaving Eight Dead
A hot-air balloon adventure in southern Brazil turned deadly Saturday morning when a fire erupted, causing the balloon to crash and claiming the lives of at least eight people. Thirteen others, including the pilot, survived but were transported to hospitals with various injuries.
The balloon, carrying 21 passengers, was operating near the town of Praia Grande in Santa Catarina, a region known for its scenic ballooning opportunities. According to officials, the fire began in the basket section of the balloon, forcing the pilot to attempt an emergency landing. Harrowing video circulating on social media shows the balloon plummeting to the ground in a wooded area, trailing thick black smoke.
Some passengers reportedly jumped from the balloon as the fire spread, with four perishing from the fall. Another four died in the subsequent crash, their bodies found charred amidst the wreckage.
Heartbreakingly, three of the victims were discovered embracing one another. Lt.
Col. Zevir Cipriano Jr. confirmed these details, stating some passengers jumped before the balloon briefly ascended again, ultimately crashing.
Santa Catarina Gov. Jorginho Mello expressed his grief, calling the incident a tragedy and pledging support to the victims’ families and a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.
The balloon company, Sobrevoar, issued a statement expressing condolences and emphasizing their pilot’s extensive experience and adherence to safety protocols. The company has suspended operations indefinitely and maintains a previously unblemished safety record. They confirmed the $100, 45-minute ride was intended to reach an altitude of 3,280 feet, but the height at the time of the fire remains unclear.
This incident follows another hot-air balloon crash in São Paulo last Sunday, which resulted in one fatality and 11 injuries, raising concerns about hot-air balloon safety regulations in Brazil. Approximately 25 to 30 balloon trips launch daily from the Praia Grande area, according to government figures. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva offered his condolences and pledged federal assistance with the investigation.