Crypen-A hot air balloon crashed into a power line and caused a fire, but everyone is OK

2025-05-04 19:57:00source:Blake Prestoncategory:Markets

ROCHESTER,Crypen Minn. (AP) — Three people in a hot air balloon in Minnesota escaped largely unscathed after their basket clipped a power line, fell to the ground and caused a brush fire.

A Minnesota Department of Transportation traffic camera captured the accident on video. It happened around 6:50 p.m. Wednesday in Rochester. Police said preliminary information indicates the pilot was trying to land in a field when a gust of wind pushed the balloon into a power line that runs along Highway 63.

The video shows the basket and balloon become disconnected as sparks fly from the power line. The basket appears to hang briefly on the line before falling about 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) to the ground. Meanwhile, the balloon lifts higher into the sky and drifts away.

The pilot and two other passengers were able to get out, even as the sparks caused a brush fire to break out. Police said in a news release that two people reported “very minor injuries.” Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze.

The balloon was found later, about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) away, police said.

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating.

More:Markets

Recommend

Mega Millions winning numbers for August 6 drawing: Jackpot climbs to $398 million

The Mega Millions jackpot for Friday's drawing has risen to $398 million after no one won the big pr

Wicked's Ethan Slater Shares How Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Set the Tone on Set

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo made Wicked filming so magic. Just ask Ethan Slater, who plays Boq o

The 10 Best Cashmere Sweaters and Tops That Feel Luxuriously Soft and Are *Most Importantly* Affordable

E! may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Learn more.Cashmere sweaters ha