Hot-Air Balloon Crash in Brazil’s Santa Catarina Kills 8; Several Injured

A hot-air balloon accident in Brazil's southern state of Santa Catarina claimed the lives of eight people on Saturday after the balloon caught fire mid-air and plummeted to the ground, officials confirmed.

Dramatic footage captured the horrifying moment as thick smoke and flames engulfed the balloon before it crashed. According to the state’s military fire brigade, 21 individuals, including the pilot, were on board at the time of the incident. Thirteen survivors were rescued and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

The tragedy comes just a week after a similar accident in São Paulo state, where another balloon crash killed a 27-year-old woman and left 11 others injured.

The accident occurred in Praia Grande, a region popular for hot-air ballooning, particularly during June when Brazilians celebrate traditional Catholic festivals honouring saints like Saint John. These festivities often include balloon rides as part of the cultural celebrations in southern Brazil.

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