A man who was fatally struck by a Frontier Airlines plane at Denver International Airport on Friday night died by suicide, the local medical examiner confirmed on Tuesday. Michael Mott, 41, trespassed onto airport property by scaling a perimeter fence before stepping into the path of a departing Los Angeles-bound flight. The collision ignited the plane’s engine, prompting an emergency evacuation. No other fatalities occurred, but at least 12 passengers suffered minor injuries.
Security footage showed Mott crossing the runway as the plane approached. The fire was quickly extinguished. Airport officials stated that an alarm was triggered at 11:10 p.m., but operators initially mistook the trespasser for a herd of deer near the fence. The perimeter fence, which stands 6 to 8 feet tall and is topped with barbed wire, was found intact after the incident.
Chief Medical Examiner Sterling McLaren determined Mott’s death was caused by multiple blunt and sharp force injuries, concluding the manner of death was suicide based on the totality of the investigation. Airport CEO Phil Washington emphasized safety as a top priority, addressing public concerns about fence height and security measures. The incident has raised questions about airport perimeter security and response protocols.