At least 8 people d.ad after hot air balloon crashes with 21 on board

A tragic hot air balloon crash occurred in Praia Grande, Brazil, on June 21, resulting in the deaths of eight people. Initially, Santa Catarina Governor Jorginho Mello reported 22 passengers on board, but later clarified there were 21, with eight confirmed dead and 13 survivors. Rescue teams continue working at the scene to support victims and families. The survivors have been taken to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment, according to Reuters.

Officials from the Santa Catarina Military Fire Department confirmed four deaths at the crash site initially, with further updates bringing the total to eight. Shocking video footage circulating online shows the balloon in flames mid-air before collapsing to the ground. The incident comes shortly after a separate hot air balloon accident in Turkey last week, which killed one and injured 19 others due to a sudden wind shift. Turkish authorities confirmed the pilot died after being trapped under the basket.