The pilot involved in the fatal hot air balloon crash in Eloy, Arizona in January was found to have elevated levels of ketamine in his system, according to a report released recently. The autopsy report revealed that ketamine was found in the pilot’s cardiac blood. The National Transportation Safety Board had previously suggested that an issue with the balloon’s envelope may have caused the crash, but no mechanical anomalies were found. The investigation into the January 14 crash is ongoing.
The hot air balloon, operated by Droplyne Hot Air Balloon Rides, took off with 13 occupants on board. After eight skydivers jumped out at around 5,000 feet, the balloon began to lose altitude and partially deflate. Witnesses reported that the craft regained some control at around 4,000 feet but continued to descend. Eventually, the balloon began to free fall at a high rate of speed and crashed to the ground at about 2,000 feet. Van der Walt, along with three other individuals, were killed in the crash, while another person was taken to the hospital in critical condition. The cause of death was determined to be multiple blunt force trauma, ruled as an accident.
The report stated that Van der Walt did not have a prescription for ketamine, and the drug was not used during resuscitation efforts at the scene of the crash. The DEA describes ketamine as a dissociative anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects. While medically approved for certain uses, ketamine can be abused and cause hallucinations, distort perceptions, and lead to a feeling of disconnection from the body and environment. It remains unclear why Van der Walt had ketamine in his system, and the report did not suggest that he had abused the drug. Droplyne Hot Air Balloon Rides, founded by Van der Walt, did not immediately comment on the report.
The NTSB continues to investigate the crash and will likely focus on the possible connection between the presence of ketamine in the pilot’s system and the events leading up to the crash. It remains to be seen if this information will have any impact on the final determination of the cause of the accident. The tragic incident highlights the risks associated with hot air balloon rides and the importance of thorough safety checks before takeoff. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event.
