Horror as man falls to his death after dangling from burning hot air balloon
A video captured the horrifying video moment a man fell to his death after dangling by a rope from a burning hot air balloon.
The victim, a 40-year-old man named as Lucio N, died at the First Balloon Festival in Zacatecas, Mexico, on Sunday.
He was reportedly in the balloon with two others when the fire broke out, while they were still on the ground.
Witnesses said Lucio helped the other two passengers escape but was entangled in the rope while the balloon started to lift off. He was lifted into the air and dangled on the rope before falling.
After the video went viral on social media many people praised Lucio's actions. One person commented: 'This man is a hero. That being said. I don't go in hot air balloons for a reason.'
'Heartbreaking. His final act was one of courage and sacrifice. May he rest in peace,' another wrote.
A third added: 'What a tragic and heroic story. Luicio's final act of selflessness, trying to save others while facing his own peril, speaks volumes about the strength of the human spirit.
'RIP to him. His courage will not be forgotten.'
Rodrigo Reyes Muguerza, the Secretary General of Zacatecas, confirmed what had happened on social media.
He said in a statement a participant 'lost his life' after an 'unfortunate incident' while on board a hot air balloon.
Muguerza added: 'Immediately, authorities rushed to the scene to provide care and support to the affected people.
'We have requested the State Prosecutor's Office carry out the relevant investigations to clarify the facts and disclose responsibilities.'
'We urge all municipal authorities to strengthen their verification mechanisms to avoid such risks during the development of their activities and festivities.'
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