Hot-Air Balloon Tragedy in Brazil: 8 Killed, 13 Injured in Santa Catarina Incident
A hot-air balloon caught fire and crashed in Santa Catarina, Brazil, killing eight people and injuring 13. Authorities are investigating the cause.
A tragic incident occurred in Brazil's southern state of Santa Catarina when a hot-air balloon caught fire and plummeted to the ground. According to firefighters, eight people lost their lives in this devastating accident, while 13 others were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals. The incident took place in the municipality of Praia Grande, a popular destination for hot-air ballooning, especially during the festive celebrations of Catholic saints in June.
Local news outlet G1 shared footage showing the balloon engulfed in flames as it descended rapidly. The Santa Catarina military fire brigade confirmed that 21 people, including the pilot, were on board. Governor Jorginho Mello expressed grief over the tragedy and has dispatched authorities to assist in rescue operations and provide comfort to the affected families.
This incident follows another recent hot-air balloon accident in Sao Paulo state, which resulted in the death of a 27-year-old woman and injured 11 others. Authorities are now focusing on determining the cause of these incidents to prevent future tragedies.