A peaceful hot air balloon journey turned tragic in England this week after a 33-year-old man reportedly climbed out of the basket mid-air and fell to his death.
The incident occurred on the morning of Friday, September 19, as a Virgin Balloon Flights tour made its way from Billingshurst to Dunsfold in Surrey. Sussex Police were called to the scene around 9:20 a.m. after reports came in that a man had fallen from the balloon mid-flight over Newpound Common in West Sussex.
Authorities launched a massive search operation involving drones, K-9 units, and search crews. Sadly, the man’s body was recovered from a field at approximately 1:50 p.m.
The man, who has not been publicly named, was a resident of Hertfordshire and one of 16 passengers onboard the balloon along with the pilot. Virgin Balloon Flights confirmed “a passenger incident occurred” and said in a statement that they are “deeply saddened” by the tragic loss.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the individual’s family at this incredibly difficult time. We are also deeply mindful of the experience of all passengers involved, and their wellbeing and peace of mind remain a priority,” the company said in a statement.
While the full details of what happened remain under investigation, the chairman of the U.K.’s Commercial Ballooning Association, Jon Rudoni, said, “It would appear that a passenger took their own life by climbing out the basket whilst at height.”
Rudoni also confirmed that the entire flight was captured on video, which has since been submitted to police. He extended condolences to the victim’s family and support to the pilot, crew, and other passengers who witnessed the tragic event.
Police are not treating the death as suspicious and are conducting an inquiry on behalf of the coroner.
Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating of Sussex Police expressed the department’s sorrow, stating, “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go to the family of the man and everyone on the flight. We are offering them specialist support at this time.”
The heartbreaking event has cast a somber shadow over what was meant to be a scenic and joyful experience in the skies.