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Identify 5 people who died in a balloon crash in New Mexico

Identify 5 people who died in a balloon crash in New Mexico

(CNN) – Authorities in Albuquerque, New Mexico, have identified five victims Saturday’s crash on a hot air balloon.

In this Sunday’s press release, New Mexico State Police identified the pilot as 62 – year – old Nicholas Meleski and 65 – year – old passenger Susan Montoya.

John Montoya, 61, was taken to a hospital and died of his injuries, the report said.

Police said all of the victims were from Albuquerque. The city is a very popular place for balloon flying, and hosts the International Balloon Festival every fall.

CNN previously reported that Martin Martinez, 59, a retired Albuquerque police officer, and his wife, Mary Martinez, 62, were killed in the crash. Mayor Tim Keller named them at a news conference Saturday.

Police said the crash happened around 7:30 a.m. Saturday local time.

New Mexico police say a preliminary investigation has determined that the balloon collided with an overhead electrical connection while landing on the ground. The basket sank into the fire.

CNN reports that the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the incident.

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