A man who climbed out of a hot air balloon and plunged to his death in front of horrified passengers has been named.
Jesus Lato Garzon, 33, from Watford, was declared dead following a four-hour search to locate his body.
Mr Garzon was reported to have fallen from the balloon at about 9.20am on Friday near Newpound Common, Wisborough Green, West Sussex.
It is thought he intentionally took his own life.
The horrifying moment was captured on video during the trip, which saw 15 fellow passengers and a pilot witness the tragedy.
The fall sparked a huge four-hour search using drones, officers and dogs until his body was eventually found in a field.
It is understood Mr Garzon was part of a group among 16 passengers and a pilot on a balloon flight from Billingshurst to Dunsfold.
He had bought the flight experience himself and his death is not being treated as suspicious, police said.
A man who ‘climbed out’ of a hot air balloon and plunged to his death had bought the flight experience himself, police have said. Emergency services are pictured at the scene in West Sussex last Friday
According to the Commercial Ballooning Association, the incident was captured on the flight video and submitted to police.
Jon Rudoni, chairman of the organisation, said: ‘CBA was informed this morning of a serious incident on a commercial passenger flight today.
‘It would appear that a passenger took their own life by climbing out the basket whilst at height.
‘The entire event has been captured on the flight video and submitted to the police.’
Photos from the scene show emergency services searching a field near Newpound Common in the village.
Detective Sergeant Elaine Keating said: ‘This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go to the family of the man and everyone on the flight. We are offering them specialist support at this time.
‘The man’s death is not being treated as suspicious and we are completing an investigation on behalf of the coroner.’
The man, 33, from Watford, was reported to have fallen at about 9.20am last Friday near Newpound Common (pictured), Wisborough Green, West Sussex
The operator, Virgin Balloon Flights, said: ‘We are deeply saddened to confirm that a passenger incident occurred on Friday morning.
‘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.
‘We are working closely with, and fully supporting, the relevant authorities as they carry out their investigation.’
For free, confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, visit samaritans.org or visit https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support