SURREY, British Columbia, Aug. 29 (UPI) -- The pilot of a hot air balloon that crashed in Canada apologized Wednesday to the families of those killed and injured in the fiery accident.
Stephen Pennock apologized to relatives of the two people killed and the 11 others who were injured when his balloon plummeted in flames Friday in Surrey, British Columbia, CBC News said.
"I deeply regret the injuries and damages caused by this accident. My thoughts are with the families as they continue the healing processes," Pennock said in a released written statement.
The Fantasy Balloon Charter owner said the Canadian Transportation Safety Board had begun its official investigation into the deadly accident.
Passengers were boarding Pennock's balloon when an explosion occurred in the vehicle's gondola. The tethers holding the balloon snapped and it quickly flew off into a nearby recreational vehicle park.
The Canadian Broadcasting Corp. news department said both of the people killed were on board the balloon when the crash occurred.
