LOCKHART -- Following the deadliest hot air balloon crash in American history, many are still grieving the loss of its 16 victims.
"This has had a big impact on the community, we're not accustomed to something like this, this loss of life has been devastating," said Lockhart resident Fred Weber.
Brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, and friends – all taken unexpectedly.
"Tressie and Brian Neill were the spirit of happiness and love,” said Carrie Hanson, Tressie Neill’s cousin. “They were celebrating their 23rd anniversary, Brian was surprising her with a hot air balloon ride."
It was both Brian and Tressie's first time on a hot air balloon.
For Hanson, news of the crash was difficult to process.
"Definite shock, because you don't expect things like that to happen ever, ever,” Hanson said. “And when it did, it just tore a hole in all of our hearts."
But even in the midst of sadness, a symbol of hope prevails – a small Bible found at the crash site, charred, but still intact.
"It symbolizes that even though something is damaged, it's still usable,” said Sgt. Ryan McKittrick, Texas Highway Patrol. “And even though we lost 16 people and they're gone forever, we still have lessons to learn."
The victims came from all over Texas – from San Antonio to North Texas, from Wimberley and New Braunfels to Houston – and the impact of their loss is felt statewide.
"Although none of the victims lived here, we feel like their loss has been our loss," said Weber.