WATCH: Hot air balloon crashes after catching fire
A hot air balloon caught fire and crashed to the ground, killing at least eight people.
What was meant to be a scenic balloon ride turned tragic when a hot air balloon carrying 21 people crashed in the southern city of Praia Grande, Brazil.
The devastating accident occurred on Saturday morning, as confirmed by Santa Catarina State Governor Jorginho Mello in a statement on X (formally Twitter).
Eight people died during the incident.
According to the state government, 13 people, including the pilot, managed to survive the crash. Fortunately, no individuals were reported missing after the incident.
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As reported by BBC News, Brazil's National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
"According to the pilot, who is one of the survivors, a fire started inside the basket. He began to lower the balloon, and when it was very close to the ground, he told people to jump," said Officer Tiago Luiz Lemos from the Praia Grande police station.
"They started to jump, but some people were unable to. The flames intensified, and due to the weight, the balloon began to rise again. It later fell because of a loss of suspension," Lemos explained.
*Warning: Not for sensitive viewers
Hot air balloon in Brazil crashes, bringing down 21 people with it.
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) June 21, 2025
pic.twitter.com/p1frMQULx2
Among the victims were two couples, a mother and daughter, a respected ophthalmologist, and a young figure skater.
Survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment and care.
The balloon was operated by Sobrevoar Serviços Turísticos, a company well known for offering scenic tours in the region. The company has since suspended all operations indefinitely.
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In a statement, the company said: "Unfortunately, even with all necessary precautions and the efforts of our experienced pilot — who followed all recommended procedures and tried to save everyone on board — we are now faced with the pain caused by this tragedy."
Governor Mello posted a video stating he had mobilised "the entire state structure" to support rescue efforts and grieving families. "We are in mourning; what happened is a tragedy," he said. "We will investigate why this happened. But the important thing now is to do everything possible to support the people and the families."
Praia Grande, located in Santa Catarina, is known as a hotspot for ballooning and nature tourism.
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Image: X/ Screenshot