Hot Air Balloon Explodes in Temecula

The balloon exploded shortly after landing on the ground

Four people were hurt when a hot air balloon carrying five people over Temecula Wine Country landed, then exploded near a vineyard Saturday morning, officials said.

Details about what caused the crash were not immediately available but it was originally reported that the balloon crashed. Officials later clarified that the balloon landed safely before a small explosion occurred.

One of the passengers was taken to a burn center, Riverside County Fire Department officials said. Two others were taken to a trauma center, and one was taken to a hospital. The fifth passenger was not hurt.

The balloon landed near vineyards at Vino Way and Calle Cabernet at about 7:44 a.m, fire officials said. 

The Federal Aviation Agency and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident.

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