Update: Sparks Fly in Rochester Hot Air Balloon Accident (Video)
Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- Rochester-area first responders were dispatched to a crash that involved a hot air balloon Wednesday evening.
The incident was captured by a MnDOT traffic camera stationed in the area. Firefighters who responded to the scene reported seeing the balloon drifting through the sky without its basket.
The footage shows the balloon drifting east then a sudden burst of sparks are seen when the balloon appears to collided with a set of power lines.
The balloon is then seen rapidly deflating before ascending over the highway. It eventually drifted out of the camera's view.
Hot Air Balloon Appears to Hit Power Lines Along Busy Rochester Highway
A spokesperson for the Rochester Fire Department says crews responded to the report of a hot air balloon accident. Preliminary information indicated the balloon may have collided with a set of power lines around 6:50 p.m.
The MnDOT camera that captured the incident is stationed along Hwy. 63 at 40th St. South in southern Rochester.
A statement issued by the Rochester Police Department says the balloon detached from the basket and the passengers fell 20-30 feet while still inside of the basket. The preliminary investigation indicates the balloon was trying to land in a field when a gust of wind pushed it into power lines.
Police say three occupants were inside of the basket, which was found about a mile from the scene. Two reported suffering what are being described as "very minor injuries.
The Rochester Fire Department was also dispatched to the scene to put out a 100 foot by 100 foot grassfire.
Story Updated to include information released by the Rochester Fire Department and Rochester Police Department
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Gallery Credit: Samm Adams