TSA worker plunges to his death in apparent suicide at Orlando airport
By Anthony Izaguirre
February 2, 2019 | 1:06pm | Updated
People wait to get through security at the Orlando International Airport following a security incident on February 2.AP
A Transportation Security Administration worker plunged to his death inside Orlando International Airport in an apparent suicide Saturday, police said.
The man, who was in his 40s, jumped at 9:30 a.m. from the Hyatt Regency Hotel into an atrium at the airport, according to the Orlando Police Department.
He was found in critical condition and later pronounced dead at a hospital.
A witness told WPLG that he saw the man climb over a balcony railing before leaping to his death.
“Thought it was strange and then thought he may be observing the security area below since he was TSA. I wish I would have said something to him,” said James Shaw, a hotel guest.
“Our hearts are with the @TSA family during this very difficult time,” the Orlando Police Department tweeted.
The TSA also offered condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the officer’s family, friends and everyone in our TSA family.”
Pictures and video on social media showed the Orlando hub at a standstill, with massive crowds and long lines formed near yellow caution tape. The airport warned commuters via Twitter to expect delays.
The death follows the 35-day partial government shutdown in which TSA employees were expected to come to work without pay.
By Anthony Izaguirre
February 2, 2019 | 1:06pm | Updated
People wait to get through security at the Orlando International Airport following a security incident on February 2.AP
A Transportation Security Administration worker plunged to his death inside Orlando International Airport in an apparent suicide Saturday, police said.
The man, who was in his 40s, jumped at 9:30 a.m. from the Hyatt Regency Hotel into an atrium at the airport, according to the Orlando Police Department.
He was found in critical condition and later pronounced dead at a hospital.
A witness told WPLG that he saw the man climb over a balcony railing before leaping to his death.
“Thought it was strange and then thought he may be observing the security area below since he was TSA. I wish I would have said something to him,” said James Shaw, a hotel guest.
“Our hearts are with the @TSA family during this very difficult time,” the Orlando Police Department tweeted.
The TSA also offered condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the officer’s family, friends and everyone in our TSA family.”
Pictures and video on social media showed the Orlando hub at a standstill, with massive crowds and long lines formed near yellow caution tape. The airport warned commuters via Twitter to expect delays.
The death follows the 35-day partial government shutdown in which TSA employees were expected to come to work without pay.
