A political rally in the capital of Armenia took a frightening turn when a cluster of balloons ignited in the middle of the ceremony. More than 100 people were injured when promotional balloons bearing the imprint “Let’s Believe in Change” burst into flames in the center of Yerevan.
Several news organizations as well as rally participants captured the frightening footage, available below courtesy of The Telegraph. The incident occurs at 0:10 into the video.
The rally and concert occurred last Friday ahead of the country’s parliamentary polls, held on Sunday. Armenian president Serge Sarkisian was on hand for the rally, delivering a speech following the incident.
Authorities were uncertain what caused the balloons to ignite, although eyewitnesses claim to have seen someone light a cigarette near the clusters. Officials believe the balloons were filled with hydrogen instead of the more common helium, which is not flammable.
The BBC reports that 144 people were injured, with more than 100 requiring hospitalization. President Sarkisian visited area hospitals to speak with the victims following the rally. No one was reported has having life-threatening injuries.
