San Francisco Airport Worker, 28, Dies in ‘Tragic’ Cargo Towing Accident

A San Francisco International Airport worker was killed on the job Sunday, Jan. 18, after an accident involving a cargo pallet.

John Brandon Lacayanga, 28, was working on a vehicle service road between Terminal 3 and the International Terminal’s Boarding Area G, airport spokesperson Doug Yakel said in a statement. He was believed to be towing a cargo pallet at the time of the incident.

At around 7 p.m., San Francisco firefighters responded to a report of an accident and found Lacayanga dead beneath the cargo pallet. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) responded that same night and interviewed his employer, Dubai National Air Travel Agency (DNATA), according to CBS San Francisco.

OSHA is investigating what happened and said no additional details were available.

DNATA, an airport services provider based in the United Arab Emirates, offers aircraft ground handling and cargo services, along with travel and flight catering operations worldwide, according to the company’s website.

In a statement, DNATA said it was providing support to Lacayanga’s family and cooperating with authorities.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to their family, friends and colleagues,” the company said, adding that it is “providing all possible support” to his family and “working closely” with authorities.

A GoFundMe page has been created to help Lacayanga’s parents, Hospicio and Jane Lacayanga, cover unexpected funeral costs.

“This tragic loss was unexpected, and we hope to ease the financial burden on his parents during this incredibly difficult time,” the description said. “Any contribution, no matter the amount, will be deeply appreciated and will help us honor Brandon’s life and legacy.”