A driver slammed a Mercedes through the entrance of Detroit Metropolitan Airport’s McNamara Terminal Friday evening, crashing into a Delta Air Lines ticket counter before being taken into custody by authorities.
The dramatic incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. in the terminal’s check-in area, sending shockwaves through travelers and airport staff. Video footage captured by a news employee at the airport shows the vehicle sitting inside the terminal after plowing through the entrance.
Six people treated at scene
Six people were treated at the scene following the crash, though officials have not released details about the extent of their injuries. Witnesses described hearing a loud noise as the car burst through the terminal entrance and slammed into the Delta desk while employees were working.
According to eyewitnesses, the driver exited the vehicle with his hands raised and was speaking, but witnesses could not make out what he was saying. The driver was quickly apprehended by responding officers.
“The response was so quick thank God with the cops and TSA and everybody,” said Ali Khalifa, who was traveling through the airport at the time. “That all happened in seconds.”
Incredibly swift emergency response
Police and Transportation Security Administration officials responded rapidly to the scene, and travelers praised the quick action of law enforcement. The incident prompted an immediate security response at one of the nation’s busiest airports.
The crash caused significant damage to the Delta Air Lines ticket counter area; debris was visible throughout the check-in section. Video from inside the terminal shows the aftermath of the collision, as airport personnel and emergency responders worked to secure the area.
Airport officials confirmed that the driver was taken into custody, but no information has been released about potential charges or the driver’s identity. The motive behind the incident remains under investigation.
Airport operations continue
Despite the startling scene inside the terminal, airport operations were not significantly disrupted. Flights continued to depart from the McNamara Terminal as scheduled, and there were no widespread delays or cancellations tied to the crash.
The immediate check-in area where the vehicle came to a stop was temporarily closed off while police and airport crews responded, forcing some travelers to reroute through other parts of the terminal. Even so, passenger processing continued, and the airport returned to normal operations shortly after the incident.
Details are still foggy
Authorities have not announced what charges the driver may face, nor have they released additional details about the ongoing investigation. Officials also have not said how much damage the crash caused to the terminal, or how long repairs to the affected check-in area could take.
The airport maintains its own police force and works closely with federal partners, including the Transportation Security Administration, to monitor activity and respond quickly when incidents occur.
As the investigation continues, officials are expected to take a closer look at how the vehicle was able to enter the terminal, and whether existing barriers and access controls operated as intended.