Aircraft technician Georgie Buxton has died after sustaining a severe brain injury in an explosion inside a plane fuel tank at Heathrow Airport. The 23-year-old passed away at St Mary's Hospital after spending 27 days in intensive care.
Investigation into the explosion
Georgie was one of two Virgin Atlantic technicians examining a fuel leak on a Boeing 797-900 when the explosion occurred on June 11. His colleague, who was in another part of the fuel tank and escaped injury, managed to move Georgie from the tank onto the platform stairs they were using.
A forensic post-mortem examination conducted at the request of police found that Georgie had sustained a traumatic brain injury – a craniofacial trauma. The Metropolitan Police has initiated a criminal investigation and is collaborating with the Health and Safety Executive. An inquest into Georgie's death has been opened and suspended pending any criminal charges being brought.
Family's tribute and fundraising appeal
Georgie had been employed by Virgin Atlantic for two years and had previously held the same position with Ryanair. His family have shared their heartbreak in a fundraising appeal, as reported by NeedToKnow. The page set up by Rachel Buxton said: "In Memory of Georgie."
The appeal states: "Our beautiful son and Lucia's partner, Georgie, was just 23 when he was involved in a tragic accident at work. Georgie was a kind, intelligent and caring young man who had so much to look forward to. He had recently started his career as an Aircraft Technician with Virgin Atlantic, a role he was incredibly proud of and which reflected his passion for engineering and aviation. He had quickly become a much-loved and highly respected member of his team."
The family are collecting donations in Georgie's honour for London Air Ambulance and St Mary's Hospital ICU. At the time of writing, the fundraising page had raised £16,109 towards its £24,000 target.
