Eight people have died after a hot air balloon caught fire and crashed in southern Brazil, according to state officials. The incident occurred on Saturday and marks the second fatal balloon accident in Brazil within a week.
Firefighters in Santa Catarina, where the tragedy took place, confirmed that 13 passengers survived and were rushed to hospitals.
Videos captured by bystanders and broadcast on Brazilian television showed the moment when the balloon burst into flames over a rural area near Praia Grande, a popular tourist destination known for hot air balloon rides. The basket, carrying 21 passengers, fell from the sky in flames, with some passengers seen jumping to escape the blaze.
At Our Lady of Fatima Hospital, officials reported that three of the five survivors there were in stable condition with minor injuries. The other two had already been discharged, but details about the remaining survivors were not immediately available.
An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire. Weather conditions at the time were reported to be clear.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva announced that the federal government would support victims and local authorities as the investigation continues.
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