2 people killed in reported tire explosion at Delta facility in Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport

Two people were killed and one was injured after a tire reportedly exploded at a Delta Air Lines facility in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Tuesday morning, officials said.

In a statement to NBC News, Delta Air Lines confirmed the deaths and injury of members of their staff.

“The Delta family is heartbroken at the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility (TOC 3),” the statement said. “We have extended our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.” 

The airline said it is conducting an investigation into the incident and working with local authorities. Delta did not specify what kind of incident led to the deaths and injury, but a union representing workers at the airport cited reports of a tire explosion.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, a union that represents airlines industry workers across North America, issued a statement on the reported tire explosion and extended condolences to the victims’ families.

“As a union dedicated to the well-being and safety of our members and the broader community, we will offer our resources to all those impacted by this tragic event,” the union said. “We stand in unity with Delta workers during this difficult time and we call on Delta and the relevant authorities to quickly launch a thorough investigation into how this happened.”

Earlier Tuesday morning, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said Atlanta Fire & Rescue, the Atlanta Police Department and airport teams were on the scene of the incident “working diligently to address the situation.”

“I offer my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” Dickens wrote on X. “My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery.”