I wept as I read this story…….please pray for all. No balloons in the air yesterday and today in Albuquerque, I assume it is out of respect for those that lost their lives. Amen!

Very thankful for KOB TV doing this story:

ABQ Public School family mourns loss of those killed in hot air balloon crash

Pastor Steve Stucker posted this yesterday morning:

This is the day that the Lord has made,
I will rejoice and be glad in it.
I welcome all you have planned for me today Jesus.
By your word you guide me.
By your Spirit you strengthen me.
By your will, you are transforming me.
I am your workmanship, your unique work of art.
May your will be done in me today,
I receive it by faith in Jesus’ name!
Amen!
Pastor Posts:

Sharon and I first heard of the news as we were returning home yesterday from California. Like all of you, our hearts broke. We mourn, we pray, we pray for all those who lost loved ones, we treasure each day we live, we will do better to love all, we will do better at serving Jesus in memory of these five precious souls.

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.

Below, I have collected various stories for you………

Several bystanders try to help victims in hot air balloon crash

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 Comunity, 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.

Albuquerque Public Schools


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 SuperintendentChief 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

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