Hot-air balloon strikes and collapses radio tower in Albuquerque during festival

2025-01-12 16:28:18 source:lotradecoin identity category:Markets

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A hot-air balloon struck and collapsed a radio tower Friday in Albuquerque, New Mexico, during the city’s famous festival, authorities said.

There were no immediate reports of injuries, said Kevin Carhart, a spokesperson for the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. The balloon landed in a field after it struck the tower.

The 52nd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is underway, but Carhart couldn’t say for sure whether the balloon that hit the tower was connected to the festival. It wasn’t clear how tall the tower was or whether its collapse threatened any other structures.

A balloon bumped into a power line earlier this week in Albuquerque on the festival’s third day, leaving nearly 13,000 customers without power for almost an hour.

The fiesta is one of the world’s most photographed events, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators each fall to New Mexico to look up at more than 100 balloons in bright colors and special shapes.

More:Markets

Recommend

What was 2024's best movie? From 'The Substance' to 'Conclave,' our top 10

Love movies? Live for TV? USA TODAY's Watch Party newsletter has all the best recommendations, deliv

Hilary Duff pays tribute to late 'Lizzie McGuire' producer Stan Rogow: 'A very special person'

Following the death of "Lizzie McGuire" producer Stan Rogow, Hilary Duff is remembering the TV veter

Most Americans disapprove of Biden's handling of Israel-Hamas war — CBS News poll

President Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas war continues to be met with majority disapproval as