Officials claimed that a tire at a Delta Air Lines location at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Tuesday morning apparently detonated, killing two and injuring one.
Delta Air Lines verified the staff members’ fatalities and injuries in a statement to NBC News.
“Following an event that occurred this morning at the Technical Operations Maintenance facility (TOC 3) in Atlanta, two team members were lost, and another was injured. The Delta family is grieved,” the statement read. “We have given our family, coworkers, and other loved ones our whole support at this incredibly difficult time.”
The airline stated that it is collaborating with local authorities and looking into the issue. The incident that resulted in the deaths and injuries was not disclosed by Delta; nevertheless, a union that represents airport employees mentioned hearings of a tire explosion.
In response to the reported tire explosion, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, a union that represents workers in the airline industry throughout North America, released a statement expressing its sympathies to the families of the victims.
“As a union committed to the welfare and security of its members as well as the larger community, we will extend our resources to everyone affected by this sad incident,” the union stated. “During this trying time, we stand united with Delta employees and demand that Delta and the appropriate authorities immediately begin a thorough investigation into how this occurred.”
Atlanta Fire & Rescue, the Atlanta Police Department, and airport officials were on the site of the incident “working diligently to address the situation,” according to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens earlier on Tuesday morning.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” Dickens posted to X. “My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery.”
A request for comment from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport was not immediately answered.