Chayton Wiescholek, Kaitlynn Bartrom, Atahan Kiliccote, Cornelius Van Der Walt Killed in Hot Air Balloon Accident in Eloy

4 Identified in Fatal Hot Air Balloon Accident in Eloy

 
ELOY, AZ (January 23, 2024) – Police identified 28-year-old Chayton Wiescholek, 28-year-old Kaitlynn Bartrom, 24-year-old Atahan Kiliccote of California, and 37-year-old Cornelius Van Der Walt of South Africa who died in a hot air balloon accident on January 14.
 
According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the collision happened near Sunshine Boulevard and Hanna Road around 7:50 AM. Based on the report, the balloon took off with eight skydivers and five others on board.
 
Police said the skydivers exited the balloon without incident. Shortly after, the balloon crashed to the ground.
 
The Eloy Police Department said Wiescholek, Bartrom, Kiliccote, and Der Walt – who was the pilot – suffered grave injuries and died in the crash.
 
23-year-old Valerie Stutterheim of Scottsdale, Arizona, suffered critical injuries.
 
Investigators had not found any mechanical anomalies with the balloon.
 
As of now, an investigation into the case is ongoing. In addition, no other details are available.

We offer our sincere condolences to the bereaved family and friends of Chayton Wiescholek, Kaitlynn Bartrom, Atahan Kiliccote, and Cornelius Van Der Walt.

If you have lost a loved one in a crash, get in touch with The Alpha Accident Lawyers immediately. Let our experienced and dedicated accident attorneys help you navigate through this difficult time. Our team is trained to deal with insurance companies and ensure you get as much compensation as possible for your pain and suffering. We will fight to defend you from their aggressive and unfair tactics. Call us today at (800) 544-2696 to schedule a free consultation. We work on a contingency basis, so you pay absolutely nothing unless we will your case. Moreover, you can request a copy of the police report from your accident.