Polish pilot who survived fiery North Texas crash dies in another balloon crash months later

The last time Polish pilots Krzysztof Zapart and Peter Halas were seen was during an NBC 5 exclusive in November. They were returning home after surviving a crash in Kaufman County. Unfortunately, a sad development has emerged since then.

NBC 5 confirmed that Zapart passed away last week following another crash in Eastern Europe. Candace Sweat, who had spoken to Zapart and formed a friendship with him, shared the shocking news.

Israel Alfaro, who had become friends with Zapart, expressed his hope for more time together. Zapart, a gas balloon pilot, had shared his ambitions of attempting a world record with Alfaro. However, Alfaro received the tragic news of Zapart’s passing.

Zapart and two others lost their lives after crashing a gas balloon in Eastern Europe, with the circumstances resembling the incident Zapart survived in North Texas just months earlier.

Reflecting on their bond formed during the recovery process, Alfaro couldn’t comprehend Zapart’s untimely death in another balloon accident.

Zapart and Halas were injured in a fiery gas balloon crash in Kaufman County in October 2023 while participating in an international race. Alfaro, involved in the rescue efforts, shared fond memories of their last encounter before Zapart’s departure.

Before leaving Texas, Zapart had gifted Alfaro a Polish team jacket, a memento cherished by Alfaro. He has since communicated with Zapart’s children, who shared photos and videos of the memorial service in Europe, which included a balloon salute in honor of their father.

Meanwhile, Halas, still recovering from his injuries in Poland, is reportedly deeply affected by the loss of his friend, Zapart.