Pedestrian Killed After Being Struck by Plane at Denver International Airport

Passengers were evacuated from the plane

DENVER — A pedestrian was killed late Friday night after being struck by an aircraft during takeoff at Denver International Airport, according to airport officials.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:19 p.m. when Frontier Flight 4345 reported hitting a person on the runway. Emergency crews responded immediately to the scene.

Airport officials said the individual had jumped the perimeter fence and was crossing the runway when they were struck about two minutes later. The pedestrian has not been identified and is not believed to be an airport employee.

Twelve people reported minor injuries in connection with the incident, and five were transported to local hospitals.

Passengers aboard the flight were transported back to the terminal by bus, and most later departed on another Frontier flight.

Officials said the airport’s perimeter fence was inspected following the incident and found to be intact.

Runway 17L was closed as authorities investigated but was expected to reopen within a couple of hours.

Airport officials expressed sympathy to those involved, calling the incident “extremely saddening.”