Balloon crashes in Arizona desert, four people dead

The balloon had a total of 13 people on board, including eight skydivers, four passengers, and a pilot. Tragically, four individuals lost their lives, and one person sustained critical injuries following a crash-landing of a hot air balloon in the southern Arizona desert on Sunday, January 14. A press release from the Eloy Police Department stated, “This morning, a heartbreaking incident took place in our community. At approximately 7:50 AM, a hot air balloon crash-landed in the desert area east of Sunshine Blvd. and Hanna Rd. in Eloy, leading to four fatalities and one person in critical condition.”

Also Read: Two buses collide near Mathura causing injuries to 40 passengers

“We are in close collaboration with federal agencies, including the NTSB and FAA, to probe into the root cause of this unfortunate incident. As we persist in our investigative efforts, we seek your thoughts and support for the families and loved ones impacted during this challenging period,” the statement further mentions.

A victim, identified as Katie Bartrom, 28, a nurse from Indiana, has been confirmed among those affected, as reported by the Daily Mail. Police indicated that the incident occurred around 7:50 am when the aircraft crashed into the desert approximately five miles north of the city of Eloy.

Also Read: PM Modi to open Mumbai Trans Harbour Link

Balloon was carrying a total of 13 individuals

The balloon was carrying a total of 13 individuals – eight skydivers, four passengers, and a pilot. Reports suggest that up to eight skydivers had safely exited the balloon before the crash. Unfortunately, one person succumbed to injuries at the scene, while the others passed away in the hospital.

Eloy Police Chief Byron Gwaltney informed reporters, “What we know at this point is the skydivers were able to exit the balloon without incident and completed their planned skydiving event, and then shortly thereafter something catastrophic happened with the balloon causing it to crash to the ground.”