A quiet Sunday morning in Marana, Arizona, turned tense when a hot air balloon carrying seven people struck a vacant apartment building under construction, authorities confirmed.
According to the Marana Police Department, the collision occurred shortly after 7:30 a.m. near Tangerine Farms and Clark Farms, within city limits. “The balloon was able to safely land in a nearby field without any injuries to those on board,” police said in a statement.
Six passengers and the pilot were on the balloon when it brushed against the structure. The partially built apartment complex did not sustain major structural damage, but authorities said they are continuing to assess the site.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) were immediately notified of the incident and are expected to lead the investigation into what caused the contact with the building. Weather conditions at the time were described as calm, though officials are reviewing wind patterns and flight path data.
Local residents who witnessed the balloon descend described the scene as startling but calm. “It looked like it clipped the top of the building and then just kept drifting until it landed,” one resident said. “We were relieved to see everyone was okay.”
Police confirmed that no injuries were reported among the passengers or on the ground, and the balloon pilot cooperated with responding officers.
While balloon-related incidents are rare, the FAA’s records show that minor collisions often occur due to shifting winds or misjudged descent paths near urban areas.
Authorities have not released details about the balloon operator or the company responsible for the flight. The investigation will determine whether pilot error, weather factors, or equipment issues played a role.
The vacant apartment complex, which remains under construction, was unoccupied at the time of the incident.
The Marana Police Department urged residents to avoid the area while crews and federal investigators conduct assessments.
“The balloon was able to safely land in a nearby field without any injuries to those on board,” police reiterated.
As of Sunday afternoon, no further information has been released, but officials say updates will be provided once the FAA and NTSB complete their preliminary findings.
Originally reported by : Jolyn Hannah in 12 News.
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