Full Breakdown
Fatal Snowplow Incident at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport
12/11/2025, 10:15:09 PM
Incident Overview
On December 9, 2025, a 47-year-old man was fatally struck by a snowplow in the parking lot of the LSG Sky Chefs facility at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. The incident occurred shortly before 7 p.m. local time, during a winter storm that resulted in over 200 flight delays at the airport. The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed pending family notification, was an employee of LSG Sky Chefs, a company contracted to provide in-flight catering services.
Circumstances of the Incident
The snowplow, a Ford F550, was operated by a 25-year-old driver who had been privately hired by LSG Sky Chefs for snow removal. According to Jeff Lea, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, the operator remained on the scene and cooperated with authorities. Initial investigations indicate that driver impairment is not suspected to have played a role in the incident. At the time of the accident, temperatures were in the upper 20s, with light snow and high winds contributing to hazardous conditions.
Investigation and Response
The Minnesota State Patrol is assisting the Airport Police in the investigation of the incident. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office is also involved in determining the circumstances surrounding the victim's death. Following the incident, Minneapolis declared a snow emergency starting at 9 p.m. on December 10, which is intended to facilitate snow removal and ensure emergency vehicle access.
Official Statements
LSG Sky Chefs expressed their condolences, stating, "This loss affects all of us—especially those who worked closely with him every day." The company emphasized the impact of the tragedy on their team, reflecting the close-knit nature of their workplace.
Criticism & Opposition
While no formal criticism has been reported regarding the incident, concerns about safety protocols during extreme weather conditions have been raised in similar contexts. The incident highlights the potential dangers faced by workers in outdoor environments during winter storms, prompting discussions about the adequacy of safety measures in place for snow removal operations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the exact timing of the incident, with reports indicating it occurred between 6:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Additionally, while some sources mention that over 2 inches of snow fell, others note that high winds caused significant blowing and drifting snow, complicating the situation further.
What's Next
The investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol and the Airport Police is ongoing, with authorities expected to release more information as it becomes available. The incident may prompt a review of safety protocols for snow removal operations at the airport and other similar facilities in the region.
