Hot air balloon strikes power lines in Presque Isle
A hot‑air balloon that was part of the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest in Presque Isle collided with power lines on Higgins Road on Saturday morning, prompting a swift response from the city’s fire department. Firefighters arrived at the scene around 7:10 a.m., after receiving reports of smoke and the downed balloon.
The balloon crew suffered no injuries, and no one else was hurt. The incident took place on a stretch of Higgins Road that was already crowded with festival attendees and traffic, complicating the firefighters’ efforts to reach the balloon. According to a news release from the Presque Isle Fire Department, the crew had to “carefully navigate” the crowd and traffic in order to reach the scene.
“We had to be mindful of the many people gathered here,” the department said. “The incident had significant potential for serious injury to the balloon crew, spectators attending the balloon festival, and bystanders attempting to assist.” The department also warned the public to stay away from downed power lines: “Members of the public should never approach or attempt to move a downed power line or anything that may be in contact with one. Maintain a safe distance and immediately report downed power lines to emergency services.”
The balloon’s descent caused a brief interruption in power service in the area, but power was quickly restored after the firefighters and utility crews addressed the damaged lines. The festival organizers, who were on site to welcome participants and spectators, thanked the fire department for its prompt action.
The Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, a long‑running event that draws visitors from across the state, features a variety of hot‑air balloons taking to the skies for a day of flight. The event has grown in popularity over the years, and last year’s festival saw over 100,000 people in attendance.
Presque Isle officials have not yet announced any changes to the festival schedule or safety protocols. The city is currently reviewing the incident to determine whether additional safety measures should be implemented for future events.
For now, the balloon’s crew, the fire department, and the festival’s organizers remain grateful that no injuries occurred and that the incident was contained without further damage.
