ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A woman who died Saturday when a hot air balloon hit power lines and crashed was taking the ride as part of a “bucket list” trip.
Susan Montoya, 65, was the assistant principal at Georgia O’Keefe Elementary School since 2015, KOB reported.
She was moving to another school next year and coworkers pitched in to buy her the balloon ride as a gift.
Albuquerque Public Schools Superintendent Scott Elder said the ride was on Montoya’s “bucket list.”
“The staff at Georgia O’Keefe chipped in funds to purchase a balloon ride for Susan and three guests as a farewell gift,” Elder said. “It was their way of showing Susan how much they love and appreciated her. There are no words to describe the heartache and trauma the staff at Georgia O’Keefe is dealing with today. Please keep them in your prayers.”
>> 5 dead after hot air balloon crash in Albuquerque
On Saturday, the gondola fell from about 100 feet before crashing into the median of a busy street. The envelope of the balloon floated away and eventually landed on the roof of a home. The cause of the crash is unclear.
Four other people, including Montoya’s husband John, died in the crash. John Montoya was a teacher at Albuquerque Public Schools, KOB reported.
Pilot Nicholas Meleski and Mary and Martin Martinez also died in the accident.
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