ATLANTA (WANF/Gray News) – Two people were killed and one was injured when a tire apparently burst in Delta’s maintenance hangar at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Tuesday morning.

Atlanta Fire and Rescue said they arrived shortly after 5 a.m.

The three employees were part of Delta’s TechOps team and the incident occurred in the plant’s wheel and brake shop, John Laughter, president of Delta TechOps, said in a memo to employees.

“The Delta family is heartbroken over the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility,” Delta said in a statement. “We have pledged our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”

“I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a statement on social media. “My thoughts are also with those injured and I hope for their speedy and full recovery.”

The IAM union, which is working to form a union for Delta employees, confirmed that a tire had burst at the maintenance facility.

“We stand with Delta workers during this difficult time and call on Delta and the relevant authorities to immediately launch a thorough investigation to find out how this happened,” the IAM union said in a statement.

A spokesman for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport said the incident occurred on Delta property and had no impact on airport operations.

“Our prayers are with the families affected by the tragic incident at the Delta Air Lines Technical Operations Maintenance Facility this morning,” a statement on the airport’s social media accounts said. “We extend our condolences to our partners who continue to ‘Keep Climb’ during this difficult time.”

Delta thanked first responders and medical teams.

“The Delta family is grateful for the quick response of first responders and medical teams on the scene. We are now working with local authorities and conducting a full investigation to find out what happened.”

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