In an event that has raised more eyebrows than a poorly-timed sneeze at a barber shop, a hot air balloon took an unplanned jaunt into power lines, injuring three people and ensuring that Sunday evening plans for residents east of Lowell, Indiana, went up in proverbial, and somewhat literal, sparks.

It was just before 7 p.m., when a hot air balloon decided to get a closer look at an unincorporated area nestled away from the hustle and bustle of Lowell. The balloon came perilously close to power lines, causing an electrical shock strong enough to humble even the most ambitious of DIY home electricians. Despite the near miss, the resulting electricity show didn't leave anyone feeling particularly shocked—well, except the three individuals involved.

A video posted on social media captured the moment the balloon got cozy with the power lines, generating a spark Houdini would’ve appreciated. The brief but intense burst of electricity left two passengers and the pilot with severe burn injuries. Because one helicopter ride just isn't thrilling enough after a nerve-wracking balloon escapade, two medical helicopters were called to the scene.

The pilot was taken to the hospital by ground—with presumably fewer fireworks en route—while the two passengers were transported by air to different hospitals. The Lowell Fire Department reported that the electrical current had indeed returned the favor, passing from the power lines straight to the basket. You know the ride isn't going well when you find yourself in a field, basket attached, pilot and passengers inside, and probably longing for the days when the biggest danger associated with a hot air balloon was running out of champagne.

For those questioning the feasibility of electrical conduction through a balloon, science had no sympathies that day. Evidence suggested electrical current made its way from the meticulous power lines to the unintentional visitors in the basket, ensuring their time aloft was electrifying in all the wrong ways.

Upon landing, like any good dramatic event worthy of Don McLean's next homage, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was called in to investigate the incident. The FAA likely enjoyed the break from dealing with mundane 737s to instead unravel the mystery of how hot air balloons and power lines became such close friends. Meanwhile, the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) Response Operations Center was notified and provided guidance on securing the crash site, making sure no tourist with a magnifying glass and a penchant for chaos would further complicate the scene.

In sum, what began as a leisurely balloon trip over the Indiana countryside turned into a high-stakes, perchance-to-dream scenario involving power lines and electrical currents. It’s safe to say that, in the future, these balloonists may prefer to keep their feet a bit closer to the ground—or at least pay closer attention to where those high-tension lines are hanging out. As for the balloon, it now holds the title of the most electrifying ride this side of the county fair.

In an age where sky-high experiences are all the rage, this incident reminds us that excitement can quickly turn to emergency. While the thrill of soaring amongst the clouds is undeniable, avoiding becoming an impromptu member of the local electric circuit should be top of any balloonist's priority list.