A devastating incident unfolded on Saturday when a hot-air balloon carrying 21 individuals ignited while in the air, crashing in Praia Grande, a picturesque municipality in southern Brazil known as a tourist hotspot. Local authorities confirmed that at least eight people lost their lives in the crash, while the remaining 13 passengers miraculously survived.
The balloon took to the skies around 8 a.m. local time, but shortly thereafter, it became engulfed in flames, ultimately descending into a forested area after losing altitude. Dramatic footage circulated on television and social media depicted the balloon as it erupted into flames before deflating.
In response to the tragedy, a search operation was initiated involving 27 firefighters, several vehicles, and an aircraft to assist in the rescue efforts and investigation of the site. Officials have been probing the circumstances leading to the disaster. During a recent news conference, it was revealed that the balloon’s pilot, who survived the crash, reported that the fire was ignited by a reserve gas cylinder stored within the gondola. The pilot struggled to lower the balloon and instructed passengers to leap to safety, with a few managing to escape before the balloon was lifted back into the air by the remaining lighter cargo.
As authorities work to uncover the details surrounding the crash, the community mourns the tragic loss of life in such a beloved tourist activity.
