Preston hot air balloon: Man falls to death

A man has died in a hot air balloon incident in Melbourne’s north, police have confirmed.

Victoria Police said it would prepare a report for the coroner following the death of a man in Preston on Monday morning.

“Emergency services were called to Albert Street where a man’s body was located about 7.30am,” the police said.

“It’s believed the man was riding in a hot air balloon at the time of the incident.

“Police are speaking to the other occupants in the balloon and witnesses to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“The balloon landed safely at Yarra Bend Park.”

Police were also seen surrounding the basket of a landed hot air balloon at the Fairfield park.

A neighbour told Nine News a loud bang was heard at the time of the incident.