The local sheriff’s office said it will brief news organizations later in the day on the crash. Investigators were working to determine the identities of all 16 victims. When emergency responders and sheriff’s officials arrived, it was apparent the reported fire was the basket portion of the hot air balloon, according to the statement.
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Authorities say there appear to be no survivors of hot air balloon crash in Texas that was carrying at least 16 people.
Agents from the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are on their way to the scene to investigate. “Names will be released by local officials after relatives have been notified”, FAA spokesperson Lynn Lunsford said in a statement.
The balloon came down near Lockhart, south of the city of Austin, after catching fire.
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The accident happened about 8:40am on Saturday.
