More information has surfaced on the tragic balloon accident that took place in central Texas. NBC News is reporting that there is a strong possibility that the balloon hit a power line before the crash took place. As the investigation continues, Robert Sumwalt and other members of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have stated that it is not clear whether or not the fire that took place happened before or after the balloon hit the power line.
While officials are continuing their search, people are now looking to incidents involving the same type of hot air balloon involved in this crash; This incident is not the first involving that particular model. Sumwalt is also stating that 14 personal electronic devices were found amongst the wreckage. This included cell phones, an iPad, and cameras. Many of which are not allowed and/or recommended when flying in such a balloon, and not at such a low altitude.
Among the victims was a newlywed couple, Matt and Sunday Rowan. Matt Rowan was in contact with friends while on the balloon and had sent out a picture of the tranquil landscape view from the balloon approximately twelve minutes before the crash took place.
NBC news is also reporting that moving forward, investigators will be looking at three major factors to determine whether or not this incident was purely an accident: Skip Nichols (the man piloting the aircraft), the environmental conditions, and the balloon itself.
Officials are calling this investigation a “race against time” as the search is dependent upon what information can be gathered before the conditions and the area changes. With a reported sixteen people killed, this is being called the deadliest accident of its kind to ever occur in the Untied States. While the investigation continues, the people of Texas and the family and friends of the victims are left with feelings of sadness and confusion. Moving forward, incidents like these can be used as examples for preventative methods of the future.
