A tragic workplace accident at San Francisco International Airport has claimed the life of a young ground handling employee. John Brandon Picazo Lacayanga, aged 28, was killed on Sunday evening while performing his duties transporting cargo between terminals.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Emergency services were dispatched to the airport after reports of a serious incident. Upon arrival, responders discovered Lacayanga's vehicle completely crushed beneath a heavy cargo pallet he had been towing. Airport officials confirmed the grim scene to local news outlets, stating the accident occurred around 7pm as Lacayanga was moving cargo between Terminal 3 and the International boarding area G.
Authorities have confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the incident and that Lacayanga was working alone at the time of the tragedy. The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have both investigated the circumstances, concluding that the death was accidental.
Victim and Employer Information
John Lacayanga was an employee of the Dubai National Air Travel Agency (dnata), a company that provides comprehensive ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services at airports worldwide. The coroner's office has confirmed that Lacayanga was a resident of San Francisco.
In an official statement, airport representatives expressed profound sorrow: 'We are deeply saddened to confirm that a dnata team member passed away whilst on duty at San Francisco International Airport on 18 January. Our heartfelt condolences go out to their family, friends and colleagues.'
The statement continued: 'dnata is providing all possible support to the family at this difficult time. We are working closely with the relevant authorities to understand the circumstances of the incident.'
Family Response and Memorial
Lacayanga is survived by his parents, Hospicio Lacayanga and Mary Jane Lacayanga. The family has established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses during this devastating period.
The fundraising description reads: 'This tragic loss was unexpected, and we hope to ease the financial burden on his parents during this incredibly difficult time.' The campaign reflects the sudden and shocking nature of the accident that has left family and colleagues grieving.
As investigations continue into the precise mechanics of how the cargo pallet came to crush the vehicle, workplace safety protocols at airport cargo handling operations are likely to come under increased scrutiny. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential hazards faced by ground crew personnel in busy airport environments.
