Hot Air Balloon Crashes into California Casino Due to High Winds

A hot air balloon crashed into the side of Sky River Casino in Sacramento, California, after being lifted unexpectedly by high winds. The balloon was part of a celebration marking the beginning of construction of a new hotel at the casino. The pilot was the only person on board and was uninjured in the crash.

The balloon struck a power line before hitting the casino and eventually landed in a field. Authorities said the balloon lifted up unexpectedly due to high winds. “Due to unexpected heavy winds, the pilot chose to launch into free flight in accordance with safety protocols,” Sky River Casino said in a statement. “The balloon and pilot have landed safely.”

Video of the incident shows the balloon drifting unsteadily above the parking lot, hitting the side of the casino before rising up over the roof. The balloon continues drifting with a highway visible in the background as the basket swings erratically. The craft then picks up speed, moving over the highway and some other nearby industrial buildings. Approaching a grassy field, the balloon seems to slow down quite a bit and drifts above the highway and other buildings below.