A 33-year-old man has been identified as the victim of a tragic incident involving a hot air balloon. Jesus Lato Garzon, from Watford, fell from the balloon on September 19 at approximately 9.20am near Newpound Common in Wisborough Green, West Sussex.

Emergency services conducted an extensive search for over four hours, employing drones, police officers, and search dogs. His body was eventually discovered in a nearby field, as confirmed by Sussex Police.

Mr Garzon was one of 16 passengers aboard a Virgin Balloon Flight, which was travelling from Billingshurst, West Sussex, to Dunsfold, Surrey. He had purchased the flight experience prior to the incident. An inquest into his death is scheduled to open at West Sussex Coroner's Court on September 30. Police have notified his family about the situation.

Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating expressed condolences, stating, "This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go to the family of the man and everyone on the flight. We are offering them specialist support at this time." She added that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and an investigation is ongoing on behalf of the coroner.

A spokesperson for Virgin Balloon Flights expressed their sorrow, saying, "We are deeply saddened to confirm that a passenger incident occurred on Friday morning. Our thoughts are first and foremost with the individual's family at this incredibly difficult time. We are also deeply mindful of the experience of all passengers involved, and their wellbeing and peace of mind remain a priority. We kindly ask that privacy is respected, as the welfare and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern."

The Virgin Balloon Flights website indicates that they operate flights from a back-up site in Dunsfold, offering excursions over the North and South Downs.