Hot Air Balloon Crash in Central Texas Leaves 16 People Dead with No Survivors, Police Say

A hot air balloon crash in central Texas on Saturday appeared to kill all 16 of the balloon's passengers, the Associated Press reports.

Federal Aviation Administration spokesperson Lynn Lunsford told the AP that the balloon caught fire and crashed into a pasture near Lockhart, Texas, around 7:40 a.m.

Lunsford said the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board were investigating the crash.

According to Fox News, the Caldwell County Sheriff's Office said in a statement that "investigators are determining the number and the identities of victims at this time."

"The balloon was occupied and it does not appear at this time that there were any survivors of the crash," the statement said.

KEYE news station in nearby Austin reports that first responders to the scene said it was "apparent that the reported fire was in the basket portion of the hot air balloon."

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott released a statement Saturday expressing sorrow over the devastating crash.

"Cecilia and I extend our deepest condolences for all those who have been affected by today's heartbreaking tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, as well as the Lockhart community," the statement reads.

"The investigation into the cause of this tragic accident will continue, and I ask all of Texas to join us in praying for those lost."