Pilot's Drug Use Blamed for Fatal New Mexico Hot-Air Balloon Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has determined that a deadly hot-air balloon crash in New Mexico was partially caused by the pilot's use of cocaine and cannabis. The pilot failed to maintain clearance from power lines while attempting to land in Albuquerque. The report stated that the pilot's impairment from illicit drugs likely affected his ability to operate the balloon successfully. The crash resulted in the deaths of the pilot and four passengers, who all suffered blunt-force trauma.