An inquest, which took place on Monday, December 8, 2025, has concluded that a Watford man who died after falling from a hot air balloon in September 2025 took his own life.
Jesus Lato Garzon, 33, fell from a Virgin Balloon Flights journey near Newpound Common in Wisborough Green, West Sussex, at around 9.20am on Friday, September 19, 2025.
Assistant Coroner Sally Morgan told West Sussex Coroner’s Court the evidence indicated Mr Garzon intended to end his life by intentionally leaving the balloon.
Emergency services searched the extensive area for more than four hours, using drones, officers on foot and sniffer dogs.
His body was eventually discovered on nearby farmland, having suffered severe injuries. A note found with him further confirmed the Coroner’s conclusion.
The court heard footage from the balloon showed Mr Garzon waving at a camera in the basket shortly before he fell.
At the time, he was one of 16 passengers, along with the pilot, on a flight from Billingshurst to Dunsfold, Surrey.
When he arrived at the airfield around 6.15am, the pilot did not observe any signs that he was particularly unwell or unfit to fly.
Mr Garzon’s family described him as a much-loved son, cherished family member and friend.
A Virgin Balloon Flights spokesperson said: “We are deeply mindful of the experience of all passengers involved; their wellbeing and peace remain a priority.
“We kindly ask privacy is respected, as the welfare and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern.”
Photo credit: Virgin Balloon Flights
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