A hot air balloon carrying 21 people caught fire and crashed Saturday in southern Brazil, killing eight and injuring at least 13 others, local authorities said.
The tragedy occurred in the coastal town of Praia Grande, a popular destination for ballooning during June festivals honoring Catholic saints.
Videos shared on Brazilian television showed the balloon engulfed in flames before plummeting to the ground. The weather was reportedly clear at the time.
According to police, the pilot—who survived—told investigators the fire began inside the basket. He attempted an emergency descent and urged passengers to jump before the balloon hit the ground. Some managed to escape, but others were trapped as the flames intensified.
Governor Jorginho Mello confirmed the casualties and said state authorities were providing support. “We are in mourning. A tragedy has happened… now the focus is on rescue and care for the families,” he said.
This is Brazil’s second fatal hot air balloon accident in less than a week. A woman died days earlier in a separate incident in São Paulo state.
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