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An inquest has determined that a man who died after falling from a hot air balloon intentionally took his own life. Jesus Lato Garzon, a resident of Watford, fell during a Virgin Balloon Flights trip near Newpound Common in Wisborough Green, West Sussex, around 09:20 BST on 19 September. At West Sussex Coroner’s Court, assistant coroner Sally Morgan stated that Mr Garzon had planned to end his life when he exited the balloon.
After a search lasting more than four hours involving drones, police officers, and dogs, Mr Garzon’s body was discovered on nearby farmland. The inquest revealed that he suffered severe traumatic injuries upon impact. A note found with the body led the coroner to conclude that the fall was a purposeful act. Additionally, footage from the balloon showed Mr Garzon waving toward a camera shortly before he fell.
The flight involved 16 passengers and a pilot, beginning at Billingshurst and continuing toward Dunsfold, Surrey. Mr Garzon had spoken with the pilot upon arriving at the airfield at 06:15, during which time the pilot had no concerns about his fitness to fly. Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating explained that all passengers were aware of a camera recording the flight. She described how Jesus waved to the camera but then promptly climbed out of the balloon, leaving fellow passengers no time to intervene.
Family members attended the inquest remotely from Spain and described Mr Garzon as a much-loved son, family member, and friend. Although he had not previously disclosed any mental health issues to his GP, the court learned the balloon was divided into five sections, with Mr Garzon traveling alongside three other passengers. The journey had been delayed due to fog, departing at approximately 08:45 after a safety briefing. Police stated that there were no safety concerns connected to the flight. Assistant coroner Morgan emphasized that the court would not speculate on Mr Garzon’s state of mind, adding, “I’m not going to speculate as to what was going on in his mind at the time.” A Virgin Balloon Flights representative expressed the company’s sensitivity toward all passengers’ experiences, requesting privacy and reaffirming its commitment to passenger welfare and public safety
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