Two individuals were rescued in a dramatic operation when a hot air balloon collided with a cell phone tower in Texas. This incident left them hanging nearly 1,000 feet up on Saturday morning.
The Longview Fire Department initiated a “high-angle rescue” just before 9 a.m. after reports surfaced about a colorful hot air balloon entangled in a cell tower.
According to the fire department, a sharp edge on the 1,100-foot tall tower punctured the balloon’s outer skin, causing it to hang about 920 feet above the ground.
Pictures shared by the police department depicted a damaged balloon caught in the tower’s framework, with the two passengers swaying precariously in the breeze.
A total of fourteen rescuers, both on-duty and off-duty, climbed the tower and finally reached the tired victims by 10 a.m. Thankfully, both men were awake and reported no injuries from the incident.
Using several 300-foot ropes, first responders methodically lowered the passengers from their basket. Fire officials noted that they brought the shaken duo “rope by rope” until safely on solid ground.
„Overall, despite all the challenges, it was as smooth a rescue as it could be,“ shared Lt. Stephen Winchell from Longview Special Operations.
He also remarked on the physical demands of the situation, noting, „Climbing 1,000 feet and descending back down with heavy gear is quite a workout. We are just thankful for their strength and safety.”
Lt. Winchell mentioned how the balloon’s basket was “swaying quite a bit in the wind,” as the frightened passengers clung tightly to the edges.
He likened the operation to the “Super Bowl of rope rescue,” given the challenges of working at such heights and the weather. He commended the passengers for staying calm and cooperating despite the danger.
Many gathered to watch the tense yet lengthy rescue, with some even setting up lawn chairs nearby. Winchell mentioned he heard of families watching from a gas station close by.
A local construction company, Towering II, has started the job of dismantling the wreckage. Their immediate focus is to return the basket and the remaining propane tank to the ground, followed by dealing with the shredded balloon envelope.
Firefighters and first responders received praise for their bravery and were treated to free pizza afterward. „It was unexpected, but we’re always thankful,“ the fire department expressed.
“Support like this means everything after days like today,” they added.
