FAA finishing investigation into 'Balloon Boy' hoax

FORT COLLINS - The FAA is wrapping up its investigation into the parents of 'Balloon Boy' Falcon Heene and may release the results in the next two weeks, a spokesman said.

Investigators have completed their fieldwork and are putting the finishing touches on the review, said FAA spokesman Allen Kenitzer.

The FAA began investigating after Richard and Mayumi Heene falsely reported that Falcon had floated away from their home in a UFO-shaped helium balloon on Oct. 15.

The balloon drifted about 50 miles away, landing near Denver International Airport. Flights were diverted to alternate runways for a short period, an airport spokesman said.

Richard and Mayumi Heene have both pled guilty in connection to the hoax, which sheriff's investigators said was intended to boost the family's prospects in reality television.

"The investigation is nearing completion," Kenitzer said Tuesday.

FAA officials have declined to specify what, if any, punishment the Heenes could face as a result of the incident. Kenitzer said he expected the investigation's conclusion to be made public in the next two weeks.

This story written by Trevor Hughes, Fort Collins Coloradoan.