A Frontier Airlines jet struck and killed a pedestrian crossing a runway at Denver International Airport during takeoff on Thursday night. The flight, which was traveling to Los Angeles International Airport, carried 231 people at the time of the incident.
Denver International Airport officials stated that the pedestrian, who was not an airport employee, had jumped the airport fence and was struck approximately two minutes later.
According to a post on X from Denver International Airport, Frontier Flight 4345 reported the strike at 11:19 p.m. Emergency crews responded to the scene, and passengers were bussed to the terminal before most departed on a new Frontier flight.
Air traffic control audio obtained via ATC.com captured the pilot informing the tower that the aircraft was stopping on the runway after hitting someone and reporting an engine fire. The pilot also noted smoke inside the aircraft and stated they would evacuate on the runway.
Frontier Airlines confirmed the Airbus A321 was carrying 224 passengers and seven crew members, adding that they are investigating the incident in coordination with airport and safety authorities.
Passenger Jose Cervantes told CNN affiliate KCNC that he heard a thud as the plane tilted up. Cervantes described seeing the right wing on fire and noted that the cabin began to fill with smoke during the incident.
On Saturday morning, the airport reported that an examination of the fence showed it was intact. The airport also stated that 12 people reported minor injuries, with five individuals transported to local hospitals. Runway 17L remained closed for investigation.
