Full Breakdown
Allegiant Air Sued Following Disabled Passenger's Fatal Fall
3/25/2026, 8:19:18 AM
Incident Overview
The family of Hunter Adkins, a 24-year-old man with muscular dystrophy, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Allegiant Air following a tragic incident at Huntington Tri-State Airport in West Virginia on March 28, 2024. The lawsuit alleges that the airline's crew failed to adhere to federal safety protocols, leading to Adkins' fall from an unsecured wheelchair, which resulted in his death approximately 15 hours later due to blunt force trauma.
Details of the Incident
According to the lawsuit, as Hunter Adkins attempted to board an Allegiant flight to Orlando, Florida, the crew was under pressure to expedite the boarding process to maintain the flight schedule. The captain reportedly ordered staff to hurry, which resulted in the reassignment of extra wheelchair assistants to luggage loading duties. This left only one attendant to assist Adkins, who required a specialized aisle wheelchair equipped with safety straps for safe boarding.
The complaint states that the attendant attempted to transfer Adkins from his motorized wheelchair to an aisle wheelchair without the necessary safety equipment. As they approached the aircraft, the wheelchair tipped over, causing Adkins to fall face-first onto the ground, with his wheelchair landing on top of him. Witnesses, including his father Tony and younger brother Kaden, observed the incident.
Legal Claims
The lawsuit, filed by Tony Adkins and his legal team from Claggett & Sykes Law Firm, accuses Allegiant of negligence in multiple areas, including failure to provide adequate assistance and proper equipment as mandated by federal regulations. The family is seeking damages exceeding $15,000 and has requested a jury trial. The suit also claims emotional distress for Kaden, who witnessed his brother's fall and subsequent injuries.
Official Statements
A spokesperson for Allegiant Air stated, “While we cannot comment on pending litigation, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking situation.” The airline has not provided further details regarding the incident or the ongoing legal proceedings.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Allegiant Air have raised concerns about the airline's adherence to safety protocols for disabled passengers. The lawsuit highlights systemic issues within the airline's hiring and training practices, suggesting that staff may have been inadequately prepared to handle the needs of mobility-impaired individuals.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the lawsuit outlines specific allegations regarding the incident, details regarding the exact sequence of events and the crew's actions remain contested. Allegiant has not publicly addressed the specific claims made in the lawsuit, leaving some aspects of the incident unclear.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Hunter Adkins has sparked a legal battle that raises important questions about airline safety protocols for disabled passengers. As the case progresses, it will likely draw attention to the responsibilities of airlines in ensuring the safety and dignity of all passengers during the boarding process.
