A significant security incident unfolded at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport on the evening of Friday, 23rd January 2026, when a car crashed through the airport entrance, resulting in six people sustaining injuries. The vehicle subsequently struck a Delta Air Lines ticket counter within the departure lobby, causing considerable disruption and damage.
Immediate Response and Investigation
According to official statements from the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA), the driver involved in the collision was promptly taken into custody by airport authorities. The precise cause of the crash remains undetermined at this stage, with airport police conducting a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances leading to this alarming event.
On-Site Medical Treatment and Eyewitness Accounts
The WCAA fire department provided immediate medical attention at the scene, treating all six individuals who were injured during the incident. Video footage circulated on social media platforms depicted a blue four-door sedan stationary in front of the Delta counters, with its hood and trunk visibly open amidst the chaos.
An eyewitness, traveler Ali Khalifa, recounted the rapid sequence of events to local news outlet WXYZ, stating, "Everything with the car crash happened in seconds. The response was so quick – thank God." His testimony underscores the sudden and shocking nature of the occurrence, while also acknowledging the swift emergency response.
Airline Statement and Operational Impact
Delta Air Lines issued a formal statement clarifying that, despite the vehicle impacting their ticket counter, there were no reported injuries directly linked to airline operations, nor any significant disruption to flight schedules. However, the airline confirmed that three of its employees underwent checks by emergency personnel after being exposed to debris from the crash.
Scene Assessment and Ongoing Developments
The aftermath of the collision left glass and various debris scattered across the ground near the airport entrance, with the area cordoned off by yellow police tape as authorities secured the site. The identity of the driver has not been publicly released, pending further investigation by law enforcement agencies.
This incident raises pertinent questions regarding airport perimeter security and vehicular access protocols, particularly at major transportation hubs like Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. As the investigation progresses, additional details are expected to emerge concerning the driver's motives and any potential security lapses that may have contributed to this breach.
