Man killed as hot-air balloon bursts into flames

Oct 12 2008 By Heather Clark

ONE man was killed and another injured as a hot-air balloon burst into flames after hitting power lines.

It was one of hundreds taking part in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico, USA.

The balloon stuck in the lines for a time, then floated away with its burning fuel tank still attached.

Witness Glenn Vonderahe said: "I saw the balloon and the next thing there was a lot of fire and smoke."

Another witness, Terri Bordelon, said: "I was shaking like a leaf when I saw it. My legs felt like jelly."

The event has been hit by tragedy in the past.

A 60-year-old woman fell 70ft to her death last year after a balloon snagged a power line and four people died in 1982 when propane tanks on a large balloon exploded.

There were also fatal accidents in 1990, 1993 and 1998.