Police are investigating the death of an airline employee who died Thursday afternoon in a crash incident outside a passenger gate at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
The incident happened at 3600 Presidential Boulevard at around 2:02 p.m.
According to police, airport officials contacted the City of Austin 9-1-1 communications to advise the Austin-Travis County EMS was needed at the apron level of the aircraft area where they park at the gates.
Preliminary investigation shows the airline employee was operating a ground service vehicle when he struck a jet bridge. Upon arrival, APD officers and EMS located an adult male with obvious signs of trauma to his body.
In a statement earlier, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport officials said the individual was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS medics
We are devastated by the accident involving a team member at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and our local team members. We are focused on ensuring that all involved have the support they need during this difficult time,” American Airlines said in a statement.
American Airlines confirmed in the above statement the victim was one of their team members.
There was no significant impact on airport operations, ABIA said.
“We recognize this incident of nature and we really appreciate the communities patience as we fully investigate this tragic incident,” APD Officer Destiny Silva said during a media briefing.
The incident is being investigated as an accidental death by the APD Vehicular Homicide unit.
APD said there were several witnesses and everybody involved has been cooperating with the investigation