A hot air balloon crash in Arizona on Sunday claimed the lives of four people and seriously injured a fifth, according to a media release from the Eloy Police Department.
The Eloy Police Department said the incident occurred around 7:50 a.m. in a remote desert area after a hot air balloon crash-landed. statement. “We are working closely with federal agencies, including the NTSB and FAA, to investigate the cause of this tragic event,” the news release shared. “As we continue our efforts, we ask for your thoughts and support for the families and loved ones affected during this difficult time.”
Mayor Eloy said there were 13 people on board the balloon, including eight skydivers, four passengers, and a pilot. ABC15. The skydivers had exited the balloon's gondola before the crash. Witnesses said the balloon was vertical just before it hit the ground with considerable force. (Related: 'Hey, can you hear me?': Homeowner finds 69-year-old skydiver dead in yard after 'hard landing')
#breaking news: Four people were killed this morning when a hot air balloon crashed into a rural desert area north of Eloy, Pinal County. The fifth person is seriously injured. #abc15 https://t.co/OpRixgONy6
— ABC15 Arizona (@abc15) January 14, 2024
One person was pronounced dead at the crash scene as a result of the impact. The other three people died from their injuries after being taken to hospital, the newspaper reported. One person is currently in critical condition at a local hospital.
Authorities have not released the victim's identity and are awaiting notification of next of kin. But the family of one of the victims, Katie Bartrom, 28, a registered nurse from Indiana, came forward to ABC15. Bartrom's mother reflected on her daughter's passion for skydiving and adventure, painting a picture of her life lived with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure.
