A 29-year-old drunk man stole an airport vehicle and went on a reckless joyride at Buffalo Niagara International Airport on July 29, 2025, causing property damage and raising serious security concerns. NFTA police quickly arrested the suspect, Kevin Sinning of Wyoming, after he drove the airport vehicle through the people mover area, smashing glass panels and alarming travelers.
According to NFTA officials, Sinning faces several charges, including criminal mischief, unauthorized use of a vehicle, and driving while intoxicated. Police Chief Brian Patterson confirmed that the incident is under active investigation, and more charges may follow as authorities review the full impact. No injuries were reported, and flight operations continued without delays, but the event has sparked a review of airport security protocols.
Video footage of the incident spread rapidly on social media, showing the airport vehicle crashing through glass and startling people in the terminal. Many travelers expressed concern but praised the fast response by airport police. “We saw the cart come flying through the glass. It was scary, but the officers were there almost right away,” said one witness.
The Buffalo Niagara International Airport management has promised to review and strengthen internal procedures. They are focusing on how a drunk man could access and steal an airport vehicle, which is supposed to be tightly controlled. As reported by VisaVerge.com, aviation security experts warn that insider threats and unauthorized use of service vehicles remain weak points at many airports, despite strong perimeter controls.
Key steps being considered include:
- Stricter background checks for staff with access to airport vehicles
- Better surveillance and real-time tracking of all airport vehicles
- Physical barriers in sensitive areas like people movers and terminal interiors
NFTA police responded within minutes of detecting the unauthorized vehicle movement, intercepting Sinning before further harm occurred. Maintenance crews were sent to repair the damaged glass and restore the people mover area. The airport’s facilities team is still assessing the total cost of the damage.
This is not the first time Buffalo Niagara International has faced a vehicle-related breach. In May 2025, a pickup truck crashed through a gate and crossed a runway, but no one was hurt and the driver was quickly arrested. These incidents have led to ongoing security upgrades, including more cameras, stronger fencing, and regular emergency drills.
Travelers and community members are calling for more visible security and clearer communication about safety measures. Airport officials say they will announce new security steps soon, focusing on vehicle access and staff training. If more weaknesses are found, state or federal rules may change to prevent similar incidents.
For official updates, travelers can visit the Buffalo Niagara International Airport’s website or contact NFTA police. The investigation continues, and further details about property damage and policy changes will be shared as they become available.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport remains open and safe, but this event highlights the need for constant attention to security, especially regarding airport vehicles and insider threats.
Learn Today
NFTA → Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority, agency managing Buffalo Niagara International Airport and related transit services.
Criminal Mischief → A legal charge for intentionally damaging property without permission or lawful justification.
Unauthorized Use → Operating a vehicle or equipment without the legal right or permission of the owner.
People Mover → An automated transport system within an airport that moves passengers between terminals or areas.
Insider Threats → Risks posed by employees or authorized individuals misusing access to harm secure facilities.
This Article in a Nutshell
On July 29, 2025, a drunk man stole an airport vehicle at Buffalo Niagara International, causing damage. Police swiftly arrested him, and officials are reviewing security protocols to prevent future incidents involving unauthorized airport vehicle use.
— By VisaVerge.com
