Pedestrian killed after trespassing on runway at Denver Airport
A Frontier Airlines flight struck and killed a pedestrian during takeoff late Friday night at Denver International Airport, Xinhua reports, citing Colorado authorities.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:19 p.m. local time as Frontier Flight 4345 departed for Los Angeles.
Airport officials stated on X that the individual had jumped the perimeter fence and was hit just two minutes later while crossing the runway. The person was not believed to be an airport employee and has yet to be identified.
The aircraft, an Airbus A321 carrying 231 passengers, reported 12 minor injuries among those on board. Five individuals were transported to local hospitals.
Airport officials said the fenceline was found intact after inspection. Runway 17L remained closed for investigation but was expected to reopen within hours.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy noted that local law enforcement is leading the investigation with support from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Transportation Security Administration. “No one should EVER trespass on an airport,” he emphasized in his statement.