A passenger was fatally struck by a Frontier Airlines aircraft while it was taking off from Denver International Airport in Colorado, United States.

According to officials, the incident occurred late at night when the individual breached airport security, climbed over a perimeter fence, and entered the runway area moments before the aircraft began departure procedures. Authorities later identified the man as 41-year-old Michael Mott.

Investigators stated that the Frontier Airlines flight, which was bound for Los Angeles with more than 220 passengers onboard, struck the man during takeoff, causing an engine fire and forcing pilots to abort the departure. Emergency evacuation procedures were immediately initiated, and passengers were evacuated using emergency slides.

The Denver Medical Examiner later ruled the death a suicide, stating that the man intentionally entered the runway before the collision. Several passengers sustained minor injuries during the evacuation, while federal aviation authorities and local investigators continue reviewing the incident and airport security response.