The United States Golf Association (USGA) confirmed the pilot of a blimp was injured on Thursday following a crash near Erin Hills, the venue for this week's U.S. Open.

As round one of the year's second major progressed, reports emerged of a blimp catching fire at the Wisconsin course, with spectators posting videos of the incident to social media.

In a statement from their official Twitter account, the USGA wrote: "A blimp unaffiliated with the #USOpen or [broadcaster] @FOXSports has crashed near Erin Hills. Pilot was injured and first responders are on the scene.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured."

A writer for the Cincinnati Enquirer said he witnessed the crash and the "pilot looked to have parachuted out."

The blimp was operated by advertising firm AirSign, the company confirmed to CBS 58.