Originally published October 10, 2013
Two men were burned after a hot air balloon hit power lines during a balloon festival in New Mexico on Wednesday morning.
The New Mexico Sunrise balloon was carrying pilot Mark Kilgore and Daniel Lovato when it crashed in the Rio Rancho district of Albuquerque. Police say the balloon's basket hit a power line.
Witnesses to the crash reported hearing the balloons gas burners just before the crash, adding that the balloon was flying very low.
The balloon's chase crew was waiting at the scene for the balloon to land when the accident occurred.
The balloon reportedly got stuck on the power lines and exploded shortly afterwards as the pilot made attempts to free the basket. The gondola then caught fire and crashed to the ground where the chase crew and nearby residents were able to drag both passengers free.
Both passengers were taken to the University of New Mexico hospital, one of the men had severe burns to his face and chest, according to police.
The accident was the third of its kind during this year's Balloon Fiesta. On Saturday a balloon hit a power pole while on Sunday another balloon also hit some power lines. Both balloons made a safe landing.
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