Tragic news emerged from Brazil as a hot air balloon accident resulted in at least eight fatalities. The incident took place in the city of Praia Grande, where Governor Jorginho Mello confirmed that there were 21 individuals on board the balloon.

The state governor swiftly responded by dispatching a task force to the scene of the tragedy. Reports indicated that the balloon crashed near a health center, leading to the loss of eight lives. Fortunately, thirteen people, including the pilot, managed to survive the crash, and there are no missing individuals, as confirmed by the state government press office.

Officer Tiago Luiz Lemos from the Praia Grande police station shared details provided by the pilot, one of the survivors. The pilot mentioned that a fire had ignited inside the basket, prompting him to lower the balloon. As the balloon approached the ground, he instructed passengers to jump off. Unfortunately, not everyone was able to do so, and the flames intensified, causing the balloon to rise again before ultimately falling due to a suspension failure.

The state government press office reported that the 13 survivors were promptly transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. Governor Mello, who was away on an official trip to China, expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy and assured that the entire state structure was mobilized to assist the affected families.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also extended his condolences to the victims' families and offered federal government support. He acknowledged the efforts of state and municipal authorities in the ongoing rescue and care operations for the survivors.

Praia Grande, located in southern Santa Catarina, is a renowned tourist spot known for its ballooning activities. Investigations into the cause of the accident are underway as the community mourns the loss of lives in this tragic incident.