LATEST: Eleven deaths in a fiery hot air balloon crash in Wairarapa, 150 km north of Wellington have been called a national tragedy, as investigators sift the ashes of the Wairarapa disaster in a bid to learn what went wrong.
A balloon piloted by Lance Hopping, described as experienced and safety conscious, plunged to the ground in flames near Carterton, after getting entangled in a powerline.
Hopping and five couples from the Wellington region have been confirmed dead by police.
"This is a huge national, significant event, it's a tragedy as bad as tragedies get. Yes, it will affect our community here in the Wairarapa,'' local police area commander Brent Register said.
Smiles and waves from those on board the dawn holiday flight over the peaceful town turned to screams, as the balloon plunged to the ground in flames.
Two of the passengers leapt from the blazing balloon, while it was still well above the ground.
One couple who died in the balloon accident received the ride as a Christmas gift from their children.
Read more : http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/6224922/Hot-air-balloon-crash-near-Carterton-kills-11
See video :http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xni1jm_hot-air-balloon-crash-in-new-zealand_news
No comments:
Post a Comment