This archive report was first published on 26 June 2021.
On June 26, 2021, a devastating hot-air balloon crash occurred in Albuquerque, New Mexico, claiming the lives of four people.
According to authorities, the balloon, a Cameron 0-120 hot-air balloon, struck power lines about six miles west of the Albuquerque International Sunport Airport.
One man was taken to a hospital and was in critical condition as of 1:30 p.m. Saturday, said Gilbert Gallegos, a spokesman for the Albuquerque police.
The victims included two men and two women, ranging in age from 40 to 60 years old, said Tom Ruiz, a spokesman for Albuquerque Fire Rescue.
The gondola of the balloon, which was carrying five people, crashed into power lines, caught fire, and fell into the street, said Mr. Gallegos.
Joshua Perez, a witness, rushed to the scene with a fire extinguisher and helped turn off the propane tank, but it was too late to save the passengers.
Mr. Perez described the scene as 'like a loud boom boom,' and he was left wondering where the basket was.
Albuquerque has an active hot-air ballooning scene, and pilots are used to navigating the windy weather in the Southwest, said Mr. Gallegos.
