Advertising Read more

Erin (United States) (AFP)

A blimp shooting aerial images at the US Open caught fire and crashed with the pilot apparently parachuting from the aircraft, witnesses said Thursday.

Crowds at Erin Hills Golf Course looked on in disbelief as the aircraft could be seen falling from the sky near the venue.

Local media reports and video footage of the crash shared on social media indicated a fire on board the blimp before it fell to earth.

Witnesses quoted by local media said it appeared the pilot had parachuted out of the blimp.

"We were watching a group finish on 18 and beyond the green we saw the blimp falling," witness Adam Johnson told the local Action 2 news network.

"It appears the pilot parachuted out. There is smoke rising from the site."

The incident happened at around 11.55am with the opening round of the season's second major under way at Erin Hills.

A statement from the US Golf Association confirming details of the crash said the blimp was not affiliated with the tournament or the US Open broadcast.

"First responders were quick to arrive at the scene and the pilot is currently being treated for unknown injuries," a statement said.

"No other people were involved in the incident and local law enforcement is currently investigation.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the pilot at this time."

© 2017 AFP