As Sharon, Daisy and I were returning from California yesterday we began to see the news reports coming into our phone. Five precious souls lost in a horrible hot-air balloon accident in Albuquerque. Our hearts are broken. Mr. Balloon Fiesta, Pastor Steve Stucker, posted a very heartfelt message yesterday on his Facebook page.
KOAT TV:
WHO ARE THE VICTIMS?
State Police released the names of all five victims early Sunday morning.
Pilot, Nicholas Meleski, 62.
John Montoya, 61.
Susan Montoya, 65.
Martin Martinez, 59, a former APD and APS officer and his wife Mary Martinez, 62.
All five victims were from Albuquerque.
Steve Stucker, New Mexico Weatherman
I literally hit my knees, on the sand of the west mesa, when I heard of this morning’s tragedy. I’m praying for the Souls who perished; their family, friends and especially those who witnessed the accident. This is incredibly sad for our Ballooning Community, and I encourage you to do whatever possible to support them. We are famous for all pulling together at a time like this, and I trust we will continue our Legacy. Just as everyone is becoming so excited about a return of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, it’s important we keep this in perspective, and in prayer. Ballooning is always a risky adventure, like skydiving, motorcycling or auto racing. None of us are promised tomorrow. May we see the joys of today in a fresh new way, realizing what a gift our life is.
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Below, I have collected various stories for you………
Several bystanders try to help victims in hot air balloon crash
Albuquerque Public Schools
It is with a heavy heart that we share news of the sudden and tragic loss of Sgt. Martin Martinez and his wife Mary, who died early Saturday in a hot air ballooning accident.
Sgt. Martinez will forever be remembered for his lifelong dedication, courage, and selflessness to the profession of law enforcement. He had long careers with both the Albuquerque Police Department and the Albuquerque Public Schools Police Department.We extend our deepest condolences to the Martinez family as well as members of the APS Police Department who loved, admired, and respected Sgt. Martinez. APS will provide counseling services to any employee struggling with this unexpected death. Respectfully,Scott Elder, Albuquerque Public Schools Superintendent Chief Steve Gallegos, Albuquerque Public Schools Police Department
I just learned that two good friends and long-time clients, Sgt. Marty Martinez and his wife Mary died early Saturday in the hot air ballooning accident in Albuquerque.
Marty and Mary were super people to be around. Marty had long careers with both the Albuquerque Police Department and the Albuquerque Public Schools Police Department. Mary was a Zumba instructor at various places in the North Valley.
God Bless the entire Martinez family, especially Marcus and Manuel!Several bystanders try to help victims in hot air balloon crash
