On the morning of September 19, 2025, a Virgin Balloon Flights journey over the tranquil countryside of West Sussex took a tragic turn, leaving a community in shock and raising questions about mental health awareness. Jesus Lato Garzon, a 33-year-old man from Watford described by his loved ones as a "much-loved son, family member and friend," died after falling from the balloon near Newpound Common, Wisborough Green. An inquest held at West Sussex Coroner’s Court in Horsham on December 8 concluded that Garzon had taken his own life, a verdict that has prompted both sorrow and reflection among those who knew him and the wider public.
According to reporting from BBC and corroborated by The Mirror and Evening Standard, Garzon was one of 16 passengers, along with a pilot, who boarded the Virgin Balloon flight early that morning. The group gathered at Billingshurst, West Sussex, with the anticipation of a peaceful journey across the skies to Dunsfold, Surrey. The flight was delayed due to heavy fog, finally lifting off at around 8:45 a.m. after a thorough safety briefing. Police and aviation authorities later confirmed there were no concerns about the safety of the flight itself.
Garzon arrived at the airfield at 6:15 a.m., where he spoke with the pilot. The pilot later told the court that he had "no concerns" about Garzon’s fitness to fly, a sentiment echoed by other passengers. Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating, who testified at the inquest, recounted how the group was aware of a camera installed to record the journey. "Everybody was aware there was a camera to record the flight, and the pilot asked them to look at the camera to take a photo. Jesus turned and waved at the camera and then climbed out of the balloon," Keating said, as reported by BBC and The Mirror. She emphasized that Garzon exited the balloon "very quickly," leaving "no opportunity" for the other passengers to intervene.
Moments after the group photo, Garzon climbed over the side of the basket. Footage from the balloon captured him waving at the camera immediately before his fall—a gesture that, in hindsight, carried a haunting significance. The balloon, divided into five sections, had Garzon grouped with three other passengers. The incident unfolded so rapidly that, despite the presence of others nearby, no one was able to react in time to prevent the tragedy.
Emergency services were swiftly mobilized after the incident was reported at 9:23 a.m. A search operation involving drones, officers, and police dogs scoured the area for more than four hours. Eventually, Garzon’s body was discovered on farmland near the flight path, having sustained "traumatic injuries," according to official reports. Alongside him, authorities found a note that indicated his clear intention to die by suicide. Assistant Coroner Sally Morgan, presiding over the inquest, stated unequivocally that "Mr Garzon had intended to die by suicide when he left the balloon." She added, "I should make it clear it’s not for this court to determine why Jesus took the actions he did and I’m not going to speculate as to what was going on in his mind at the time."
Garzon’s family, unable to attend in person, participated in the proceedings via video-link from Spain, assisted by an interpreter. They described him as a dedicated lifeguard and a cherished member of their family. Notably, the inquest heard that Garzon had not previously expressed any mental health concerns to his general practitioner, a detail that has resonated with many who have followed the story. The absence of prior warning signs has underscored the often-hidden nature of mental health struggles and the importance of open dialogue and support systems.
The aftermath of the tragedy has prompted statements of condolence and reflection from Virgin Balloon Flights. A spokesperson for the company said, "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the individual’s family at this incredibly difficult time. We are also deeply mindful of the experience of all passengers involved, and their wellbeing and peace of mind remain a priority. We kindly ask that privacy is respected, as the welfare and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern." The company has emphasized its commitment to supporting those affected by the incident, both directly and indirectly.
While the inquest provided clarity on the circumstances surrounding Garzon’s death, it also left many questions unanswered. As Assistant Coroner Morgan noted, it is not the role of the court to speculate on the personal motivations behind such actions. Instead, the focus has turned to the broader issues of mental health awareness and the resources available for those in crisis. The reporting from BBC and Evening Standard has highlighted the availability of support services, such as the Samaritans, which offers a 24-hour helpline for individuals experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.
The incident has also sparked conversations about the responsibilities of tour operators and event organizers in recognizing and responding to potential mental health crises. However, in this case, both the pilot and police found no indications that Garzon was in distress prior to the flight. The flight itself was conducted with standard safety protocols, and the delay due to fog was managed in accordance with best practices. As such, authorities have found no fault with the operation of the flight or the conduct of the crew.
For those who shared the balloon basket with Garzon that day, the experience has undoubtedly been traumatic. Virgin Balloon Flights has reiterated its commitment to supporting the wellbeing of all passengers and staff involved. The company’s request for privacy has been echoed by the Garzon family, who continue to mourn their loss away from the public eye.
The story of Jesus Lato Garzon is a somber reminder of the complexities of mental health and the unpredictable nature of personal struggles. It has prompted renewed calls for compassion, vigilance, and the importance of reaching out to those who may be suffering in silence. As the community reflects on this tragedy, resources like the Samaritans remain vital lifelines. Their message is clear: help is always available, and no one has to face their struggles alone.
As the sun set over West Sussex that September evening, the fields where Garzon’s journey ended stood silent—a poignant testament to a life remembered by those who loved him, and a story that has touched many more.
