A devastating incident at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has resulted in the deaths of two workers and serious injury to another.
WSB-TV Channel 2 - Atlanta reports that the victims have been identified as Delta employees and contractors. The tragic event occurred on Tuesday morning when a tire exploded in a maintenance shop, sending metal debris flying with lethal force.
The Clayton County Medical Examiner's Office has released the names of the deceased: Mirko Marweg, 58, from Stone Mountain, and Luis Aldarondo, 37, of Newnan. A second Delta employee suffered major injuries in the explosion, though their identity and current condition have not been disclosed to the public.
In response to the incident, Delta Air Lines issued a statement expressing their grief and commitment to supporting those affected. The company acknowledged the loss of two team members and the injury of another, emphasizing the emotional impact on the Delta family.
Delta's statement also indicated that they are cooperating fully with local authorities and conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. The airline expressed gratitude for the swift response of first responders and medical teams at the scene.
The accident reportedly took place inside the wheel and brake shop of the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility, also known as TOC 3. This detail was shared with Delta employees in an internal communication, providing some context to the location of the tragic event.
Multiple agencies have become involved in the aftermath of the explosion. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed its awareness of the incident and is in communication with Delta. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Despite the severity of the incident, airport officials have stated that there has been no impact on overall airport operations. This reassurance comes as a relief to travelers who may have been concerned about potential disruptions to their flights or travel plans.
The aircraft associated with the maintenance work had arrived in Atlanta from Las Vegas on Sunday night, according to flight information linked to the plane's tail number. However, it remains unclear whether this specific aircraft was directly involved in the explosion or if it was merely scheduled for routine maintenance.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens released a statement expressing his sympathy for those affected by the tragedy. He offered condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees and shared his hopes for a swift recovery for the injured worker.
Mayor Dickens stated:
I offer my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees. My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery. AFRD, APD, and HJAIA teams are on the scene, working diligently to address the situation.
The mayor's words reflect the city's support for the victims and their families, as well as recognition of the first responders' efforts in managing the aftermath of the explosion.
The tire explosion at Atlanta's airport has resulted in the tragic loss of two lives and serious injury to another worker. The victims have been identified as Mirko Marweg and Luis Aldarondo. Delta Air Lines has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and is cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation. While airport operations remain unaffected, the incident has prompted a thorough review of safety procedures in airline maintenance facilities.
