Two Delta Air Lines employees were killed and one injured Tuesday morning following a reported tire explosion at the airline's facility at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, officials said.
Delta Air Lines confirmed the incident in a statement to NBC News, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of their employees. "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 airline said. "We have extended our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time."
The airline is conducting an investigation into the cause of the incident and is working with local authorities. Although Delta did not specify the nature of the incident, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), a union representing airline industry workers, cited reports of a tire explosion.
The IAM released a statement offering condolences to the victims' families and calling for a thorough investigation. "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 stated. "We stand in unity with Delta workers during this difficult time and call on Delta and the relevant authorities to quickly launch a thorough investigation into how this happened."
Earlier on Tuesday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens acknowledged the incident, noting that Atlanta Fire & Rescue, the Atlanta Police Department, and airport teams were on the scene "working diligently to address the situation." He offered his condolences on social media, writing, "My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery."
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has not yet commented on the incident.