ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - A hot air balloon struck the side of Sky River Casino on Monday, April 27 at the groundbreaking celebration for the property’s planned hotel and resort expansion before landing safely in a nearby field, officials said.

The Elk Grove Police Department confirmed in a social media post that the pilot, the only person onboard, was not injured. Police said the balloon made an unplanned launch from the casino around 12:15 p.m. due to unexpected strong winds.

According to the department’s post, “The balloon struck the side of the casino as well as a power line before eventually descending and coming to rest in a field southeast of Grant Line Road.”

Police said the Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board have been notified about the incident.

A local news station with a helicopter overhead reported the balloon appeared to undergo a “chaotic tumble” while airborne for about 20 minutes before landing.

Prior to the incident, the balloon had been tethered in the casino parking lot outside the groundbreaking event area. Sky River Casino said in a statement the pilot initiated the flight due to weather conditions.

“Due to unexpected heavy winds, the pilot chose to launch into free flight in accordance with safety protocols,” Sky River Casino Public Relations Manager Cindy Rodriguez said in a statement. “The balloon and pilot have landed safely.”