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Scottsdale woman critically injured in Pinal County hot air balloon crash that killed 4

 A 23-year-old Scottsdale woman is in critical condition following a hot air balloon crash that occurred Sunday in Eloy, police said.

Valerie Stutterheim was injured when the balloon crashed about 7:50 a.m. Jan. 14, killing four people, including the pilot who was from Eloy. The others who died were from Michigan, Indiana and California, according to a release.

The balloon, operated by Droplyne Hot Air Balloon Rides, was carrying 13 people when it took off, police said.

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13 ON BOARD

Scottsdale woman critically injured in Pinal County hot air balloon crash that killed 4

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 A 23-year-old Scottsdale woman is in critical condition following a hot air balloon crash that occurred Sunday in Eloy, police said.

Valerie Stutterheim was injured when the balloon crashed about 7:50 a.m. Jan. 14, killing four people, including the pilot who was from Eloy. The others who died were from Michigan, Indiana and California, according to a release.

The balloon, operated by Droplyne Hot Air Balloon Rides, was carrying 13 people when it took off, police said.

That included eight skydivers, four passengers and the pilot.

“It is important to clarify that the skydiving was intentional and was successfully completed by all skydivers before any issues with the hot air balloon were evident,” police stated in a release.

The Eloy Police Department is collaborating with the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration in an investigation.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives in this tragic incident, and our thoughts are with Ms. Stutterheim as she receives medical care,” police said.

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