A 33-year-old man from Sevilla has died in a tragic hot air balloon incident in southern England.
Jesus Lato Garzón, who had been living in Watford, Hertfordshire, fell to his death on Friday during a flight operated by Virgin Balloon Flights between Billingshurst (West Sussex) and Dunsfold (Surrey).
Emergency services were scrambled after reports that a passenger had gone overboard near Newpound Common, Wisborough Green, at around 9.20am.
After an extensive search involving drones, officers and police dogs, his body was discovered in a nearby field shortly before 2pm.
Sussex Police confirmed that the death is ‘not being treated as suspicious’ and that enquiries are being carried out on behalf of the coroner.
An inquest into his death will open on September 30 at West Sussex Coroner’s Court.
Virgin Balloon Flights said it was ‘deeply saddened’ by the loss and pledged to support those affected.
‘Our thoughts are with everyone involved at this incredibly difficult time,’ the company said in a statement.
Garzon’s family in Spain and the UK have been informed and are being supported by officers.
Local police stressed that no criminal investigation is under way, with the coroner set to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
If you are affected by this story, support is available. In the UK, call Samaritans on 116 123. In Spain, the national suicide prevention helpline is 024.
