Drunk Man Driving Airport Cart onto Walkway Arrested After Shocking Airport Incident

Strange Incident at Buffalo Niagara Airport

A very unusual scene shocked travelers at Buffalo Niagara International Airport when a man from Wyoming drove an unattended airport cart onto a moving walkway inside the terminal. The suspect was later identified as 29-year-old Kevin J. Sinning, who was arrested shortly after the bizarre ride.

According to NBC News, the incident happened late at 28 July and quickly caught the attention of both passengers and airport staff. The unusual sight left many people wondering how it was even possible.

Keys Left in the Cart

Airport authorities later explained that the cart, which belonged to a company called Prime Flight, had been left with its keys still inside. Sinning, who appeared to be intoxicated, reportedly noticed the cart and decided to take it for a ride.

According to WGRZ, security camera footage and cell phone videos shared online showed the cart slowly rolling onto a moving walkway, even though the space was far too narrow. The unusual attempt made the situation dangerous and also very damaging.

Damage to Walkway and Property

The ride quickly turned destructive. The cart struck glass panels on the side of the walkway and broke several pieces. Metal frames were bent, and the walkway itself suffered mechanical damage. Witnesses reported loud crashing noises as the cart forced its way through the narrow space.

The cart itself was scratched and jammed more than once before finally reaching the end. According to Cowboy State Daily, the total value of damage was estimated at more than $3,000.

Arrest and Criminal Charges

Police officers were quickly called to the scene and stopped the cart before more damage could be done. Sinning was taken into custody without major struggle. He was visibly intoxicated and not fully aware of the seriousness of his actions.

He now faces several criminal charges: second-degree criminal mischief, third-degree grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, criminal nuisance, and disorderly conduct. These charges carry possible prison time and heavy fines because of the value of property destroyed and the risk caused to the public.

No Injuries but Investigation Continues

Although the scene looked chaotic, no travelers or staff were hurt during the ride. Airport officials later confirmed that the cart did not hit any passengers directly, but many were startled and frightened. The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority immediately began an investigation to understand how the incident happened.

One key question is why the cart was left with the keys inside, making it easy for anyone to take. Airport managers are now considering stricter rules for ground vehicles and additional checks to ensure safety.

Viral Video and Public Reactions

Not long after the event, a short video was posted on TikTok showing the cart stuck on the walkway. Millions of people watched in disbelief, and joked about the bizarre situation.

According to The Guardian, the video spread quickly across social media platforms, and many international viewers reacted with surprise, wondering how such an incident could take place in a busy airport. Others raised questions about airport security and whether staff were paying enough attention to unattended vehicles.

Wider Impact on Airport Safety

The unusual incident has led to discussions about airport safety across the country. Experts note that unattended vehicles, especially those with keys left inside, create potential risks not only for property damage but also for public safety. Some airports may now decide to introduce new policies, such as automatic locking systems for carts or stricter employee training to avoid similar problems.

At Buffalo Niagara Airport, officials are working to repair the damaged walkway and restore normal operations. Travelers are being reassured that the incident was an isolated case, but questions remain about how such a situation could go unnoticed until it escalated.

Looking Ahead

The case against Kevin J. Sinning will now continue through the legal system. His charges are serious, and the court will decide his punishment in the coming months. Meanwhile, airport staff are likely to face new training and stricter rules to prevent such accidents in the future.

For many people, the image of a cart moving awkwardly along a walkway will remain unforgettable. What began as a strange late-night ride ended with a man in handcuffs, a damaged airport facility, and a story that quickly traveled far beyond Buffalo.

Watch the video here:

@nbcnews

A #Wyoming man was arrested at Buffalo Niagara International Airport after getting into an unattended airport cart with the keys still in it and driving down a moving walkway, officials said. Police said the #joyride resulted in extensive damage to both the glass panels of the walkway and the vehicle itself.

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