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Family Sues Salt Lake City Over 2024 SLC Airport Death, Citing Security and Communication Failures

The complaint faults security lapses, delayed alerts, poor coordination for the fatal outcome.

Overview

  • The suit, filed Jan. 1, 2026 by Kyler Efinger’s parents, follows his Jan. 1, 2024 death after a manic episode at Salt Lake City International Airport.
  • The filing alleges an emergency exit near Gate A4 and an exterior door lacked delayed‑egress and alerting systems, allowing him onto the ramp.
  • Surveillance and dispatch audio cited in the complaint describe misdirected searches and muddled guidance, with the correct exit location not relayed until 10:02 p.m.
  • The complaint says controllers and pilots were not warned to hold movements during the search, and an Airbus A220 began taxiing before its pilot saw Efinger near the deicing area.
  • The family seeks $300,000 in damages plus attorney fees and a jury trial, and the city declined comment citing the pending case.