Man who died after falling from hot air balloon took his own life, inquest finds
The investigation into the suicide of a man who fell from a hot air balloon and died has been completed.
Jesus Lato Garzon, 33, from Watford, was reported to have crashed near Newpound Common in Wisborough Green, West Sussex, at 9.23am on September 19.
After more than four hours of search using drones, officers and dogs, his body was found in nearby farmland suffering from “traumatic injuries”.
Deputy coroner Sally Morgan concluded at West Sussex Coroner’s Court in Horsham on Monday that Mr Garzon “intended” to die by suicide as he left the balloon.
Footage from the balloon shows him “waving” at the camera in the basket just before it fell.
Mr Garzon, who works as a lifeguard, was among 16 passengers and pilots who boarded the Virgin Balloon Flight from Billingshurst, West Sussex, having purchased the flight experience.
The court heard he spoke to the pilot when he arrived at the airport at 6.15am, who had “no concerns” about his fitness to fly.
Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating told the coroner: “Everyone was aware that a camera was present to record the flight and the pilot asked them to look at the camera to take photographs.
“Jesus turned and waved to the camera and then walked out of the balloon.”
He later added that he left the balloon “too quickly”, leaving the other passengers “no opportunity” to stop him.
Members of Mr. Garzon’s family attended the inquest via video link from Spain, with the assistance of an interpreter in court.
He was described as a “much loved son, family member and friend” and had not previously raised any mental health concerns with his GP.
The court heard the balloon was divided into five sections and Mr Garzon was with three other passengers.
Due to fog, they departed late, around 8.45am, after a safety briefing and police had “no concerns” about the safety of the flight.
Mr. Garzon’s body was found with a note from the coroner stating that he planned to die by suicide.
Ms Morgan said: “I must make it clear that it is not for this court to determine why Jesus did the actions he did and I will not speculate as to what was going on in his mind at the time.”
After the incident, a Virgin Balloon Flights spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are first and foremost with the individual’s family at this incredibly difficult time.
“We also care deeply about the experience of all passengers involved and their well-being and peace of mind remains a priority.
“As the well-being and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern, we ask that privacy be respected.”
If you are feeling distressed or struggling to cope, you can talk or email the Samaritans confidentially on 116 123 (UK and ROI). jo@samaritans.orgor visit Samaritans Website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are a US resident and you or someone you know needs mental health help right now, call or text 988 or visit: 988lifeline.org To access online chat on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis helpline available to anyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country you can go to: www.befrienders.org To find a helpline near you
