Lake County, IN – Three people sustained severe burns following a hot air balloon crash on Sunday in northwest Indiana. The incident occurred when the balloon collided with power lines and subsequently crashed into a bean field.
According to the Lowell Fire Department, the balloon was navigating the area when it made contact with the power lines, leading to a catastrophic failure and an emergency descent. The balloon’s pilot, along with two passengers, were still inside the basket at the time of impact. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene.
The Lowell Fire Department reported that two of the injured were airlifted to the University of Chicago Medical Center and Loyola Hospital, both renowned for their burn treatment facilities. The pilot, who also suffered severe burns, was transported by ground ambulance to Franciscan Hospital in Crown Point. At this time, there is no update on the condition of the three individuals.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been notified and will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
