DENVER — The fate of a missing 6-year-old Colorado boy who was swept away Thursday on an experimental helium balloon has captured the attention of the world.
The boy climbed aboard the balloon this morning at his family’s home in Fort Collins. It landed several hours later just northeast of Denver International Airport, but rescue crews found no sign of the boy when they reached the aircraft.
The missing child has been identified as Falcon Heene. His parents, Richard and Mayumi Heene, have previously appeared on the ABC show “Wife Swap.”
The boy’s fate has touched off a wave of Tweets from celebrities watching the story unfold.
“Where is the little 6 year old boy if he’s not in the #balloon? The story is riveting and heartbreaking,” wrote Marlee Matlin.
“God, Please help rescue this little boy floating in this air balloon. Amen,” said Alyssa Milano. “I can’t watch anymore.”
“At the gym. Just looked up at the TV and saw BREAKING NEWS : BOY FLOATS AWAY IN BALLOON,” posted Lauren Conrad. “What???”
“This is terrifying,” said Ryan Seacrest.
Jordin Sparks wrote: “OMG! What is this about the boy trapped in the balloon!? Someone please fill me in! Is he okay?”
Photo: © ABC
