Frontier Airlines Plane Kills Runway Trespasser at Denver International Airport

Incident Overview

A Frontier Airlines aircraft struck and killed a person on a runway at Denver International Airport (DEN) late Friday night. The individual, who has not been identified, jumped a perimeter fence and was walking across the runway when the collision occurred.

Airport officials reported that the incident took place at 11:19 p.m.. The aircraft involved, Frontier Flight 4345, was bound for Los Angeles International Airport. Audio recordings from the flight capture the pilots reacting to the event, stating, "We just hit somebody".

Details of the Collision

According to reports, the person was struck while the aircraft was attempting to take off. Newsweek reports that the individual died after being partially pulled into one of the aircraft's engines. One passenger on the flight reported hearing a "thud" and observing that the plane's wing was on fire following the impact.

Flight 4345 was carrying 224 passengers and seven crew members at the time of the incident. Following the collision, photos showed passengers exiting the aircraft via an inflatable ramp and standing near one of the engines wrapped in blankets.

Injuries and Emergency Response

Twelve people reported minor injuries as a result of the event. Of those injured, five individuals were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

Airport officials characterized the deceased individual as a "pedestrian" and a trespasser who had entered the restricted area.

Investigation

Frontier Airlines has confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have stated that the individual had illegally entered the airfield by jumping the perimeter fence prior to being struck during the takeoff roll.