New Mexico

Nicholas Meleski, John Montoya, Susan Montoya, Martin Martinez, Mary Martinez Killed in Hot Air Balloon Accident in Albuquerque, NM

Published on: July 8, 2021

Date of Accident
July 4, 2021
Victim's Name(s)
Nicholas Meleski, John Montoya, Susan Montoya, Martin Martinez, Mary Martinez
Type of Accident
Hot Air Balloon Accident
Alcohol/Drugs Suspected
No

Where it Happened

Albuquerque, NM, USA

What Happened

State Police are investigating an accident that killed five people at in Albuquerque, NM on July 3rd, 2021. Police say the incident happened around 7 a.m. The gondola from a hot air balloon became detached from the envelope before striking a power line. It caught fire and crashed into a CVS pharmacy, killing the occupants. Police identified the victims as pilot Nicholas Meleski, 62. John Montoya, 61. Susan Montoya, 65. Martin Martinez, 59, and Mary Martinez, 62. Additional information was not available.

Additional Information

Investigating Officer or Authority
New Mexico State Police
Vehicles Involved
Hot Air Balloon
Road/Highway
Albuquerque, NM
Injuries Sustained

Fatal injuries

Apparent/Alleged Cause of Accident

Gondola of a hot air balloon detached, hit a power line and crashed into a CVS before catching fire

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