Tragedy struck the skies above Melbourne on Monday as a man met a horrifying end during a hot air balloon ride that turned fatal.
The serene morning journey took a chilling turn when the passenger plunged to his death just 30 minutes into the flight on March 18.
Authorities rushed to the scene after reports came in that the man had fallen from the basket, leaving behind a shaken group of witnesses - including the pilot - who were left "traumatized" from the harrowing ordeal. While the balloon safely made its descent in a nearby park, the streets below bore witness to a somber scene as the man's lifeless body was discovered in a residential area at approximately 7:30AM.
Details surrounding the incident remain scarce, but local police have assured the public that foul play is not suspected.
The tragic accident has left the community in mourning, prompting an outpouring of condolences from industry experts and officials, Sky News reports.
"The hot air balloon community extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased," expressed representatives from the National Commercial Hot Air Ballooning Industry and the Australian Ballooning Federation in a joint statement. "Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time."
As investigations into the incident continue, efforts are underway to provide support for those affected by the tragedy. Psychological counseling and support services are being offered to both passengers and crew members traumatized by the event.
"Passengers and the pilot are understandably traumatized by this tragedy," the organizations emphasized. "The operator is arranging psychological support and counseling for all affected."
A statement from Victoria Police to Sky News revealed: "Police will prepare a report for the coroner following the death of a man in [the suburb of] Preston on Monday 18 March.
"Emergency services were called to Albert Street where a man's body was located about 7:30AM.
"The death is not being treated as suspicious."
Police are also speaking to the other occupants in the hot air balloon.
Our thoughts go out to anybody impacted by this tragedy.
