Authorities are investigating the death of a traveller who died at OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday.
Story Summary:
- A traveller died after falling from parking level 5 to ground level at OR Tambo International Airport.
- Another male passenger collapsed and died at King Shaka International Airport on the same day.
- Both deaths are under investigation by South African authorities, and inquest dockets have been opened.
Death of traveller at OR Tambo International Airport under investigation
According to Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the incident occurred when the individual fell from parking level 5 to the ground level at approximately 15:10.
Emergency services, including law enforcement and health officials stationed at the airport’s 24-hour clinic, responded quickly to the call, but paramedics declared the person dead at the scene.
ACSA spokesperson Ernest Mulibana confirmed the tragic event and expressed the company’s condolences, stating:
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Authorities are treating the case as a high-priority investigation, and an inquest docket has been opened.
The circumstances surrounding the fall remain unclear, and further details are awaited from law enforcement.
Simultaneous death at King Shaka International Airport
In a separate incident at King Shaka International Airport in Durban, another traveller died after collapsing in the domestic arrivals area on the same day.
Emergency services were also summoned, but the male passenger was pronounced dead at the scene.
Both deaths are currently under investigation, with ACSA confirming that the necessary protocols are being followed.
Investigators have not released any additional details regarding the identity of the individuals involved or potential causes of death.
In light of these incidents, ACSA has reiterated its commitment to safety and public health at its airports.
While these deaths appear unrelated, their occurrence in such close proximity has drawn attention to the efficiency and readiness of the emergency services at these major travel hubs.
Mulibana added:
“We take every precaution to ensure the safety of passengers and staff. Both incidents are being treated with the seriousness they deserve, and we will continue to cooperate with authorities throughout their investigations.”
The incidents have not impacted regular airport operations, and flights have continued as scheduled.
However, passengers and the general public have been reminded to report any suspicious or unsafe situations immediately to airport authorities.
