Tragedy struck during the First Balloon Festival in Enrique Estrada, Zacatecas, on Sunday morning, when a hot air balloon caught fire mid-flight, resulting in the death of one person. The festival was part of the municipality’s annual patron saint celebrations.
The incident occurred around 8:00 a.m. and was captured in multiple videos circulating on social media. Footage shows the balloon’s basket engulfed in flames as the balloon loses altitude. At one point, a person is seen hanging from a rope attached to the basket before falling in a remote area.
Rodrigo Reyes Mugüerza, Secretary General of the Zacatecas government, confirmed the fatality and said local authorities responded promptly to the scene to provide assistance. He also announced that the State Attorney General’s Office has been tasked with conducting a full investigation into the incident.
In a public statement, Reyes Mugüerza urged municipal governments to strengthen safety protocols and verification mechanisms through Civil Protection to prevent similar tragedies at future public events.
“We deeply regret this tragic loss,” he stated. “Authorities are committed to fully investigating what occurred and ensuring accountability. Public safety must be a priority at all festivities.”