No survivors in crash of balloon carrying 16 in Texas

This balloon or another balloon owned by Heart of Texas Balloon Rides is believed to be the one involved in the crash. Photo: Heart of Texas Balloon Rides Facebook page.

LOCKHART, Texas, July 30, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — Sheriff’s officials say there were no survivors in the fiery crash of a hot air balloon that caught fire Saturday morning in central Texas.

TWC News and CNN are reporting that Lynn Lunsford of the Federal Aviation Administration has confirmed that the accident happened about 7:40 a.m. Central Time Saturday near Lockhart, Texas, when the hot air balloon crashed into a pasture.

Lunsford said FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board officials are going to the scene to investigate.

The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office released a statement, saying when officers arrived, the balloon’s basket was burning, and “…  it does not appear at this time that there were any survivors.”

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott released a statement following the crash:

“Cecilia and I extend our deepest condolences for all those who have been affected by today’s heartbreaking tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, as well as the Lockhart community. The investigation into the cause of this tragic accident will continue, and I ask all of Texas to join us in praying for those lost.”

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