Tragedy struck in southern Brazil as a hot air balloon carrying 21 people caught fire, resulting in the death of at least eight individuals. The incident occurred in Praia Grande, a popular destination for hot-air ballooning during June festivities that honor Catholic saints.

Jorginho Mello, the governor of Santa Catarina state where the crash took place, expressed his condolences and pledged support for those affected. He emphasized the need for immediate assistance and investigation to determine the cause of the tragedy.

Witnesses captured videos of the balloon engulfed in flames before crashing to the ground. The pilot, one of the survivors, reported that a fire broke out inside the basket, forcing him to lower the balloon. As the balloon descended, some passengers were unable to jump out before it fell, resulting in the tragic outcome.

Praia Grande, located on the Atlantic coast, is known for its hot-air ballooning activities, especially during the June celebrations dedicated to Catholic saints like Saint John. This incident marks the second fatal hot air balloon accident in Brazil within a week, following a previous fatality in Sao Paulo state.