Investigation underway after plane strikes Baltimore bakery truck driver during landing

NEW JERSEY (WBFF) — A close call at one of the nation’s busiest airports is under investigation after a United Airlines plane struck a light pole and a Baltimore bakery truck driver during a landing in New Jersey.

The terrifying incident, caught on camera, happened Sunday around 1:15pm as the aircraft approached Newark Liberty International Airport.

According to New Jersey State Police, the plane — a Boeing 767 operated by United Airlines — clipped both a light pole and a tractor-trailer while descending. Investigators say part of the landing gear and the underside of the aircraft collided with the truck and also caused the pole to fall onto a nearby Jeep.

The driver of the truck has been identified as Warren Boardley, an employee of Baltimore-based H&S Bakery. Officials say he had left the company’s Harbor East distribution center and was on his way to a New Jersey location when the incident occurred.

Dash camera footage from inside the truck shows the moment the aircraft came baring through.

Additional video shared on social media appears to show the plane flying unusually close to the Turnpike just before landing.

An H&S Bakery spokesperson tells FOX45 Boardley’s injuries were minor and they’re respecting his privacy as he continues to recover outside the hospital. “We are relieved that everyone is safe, as that is our top priority,” the company said in a statement.

Authorities say the plane was arriving from Italy and landed safely despite the incident. No injuries were reported among the more than 200 passengers or crew.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation. Officials say the extent of the damage qualifies the event as an “accident”, and a preliminary report outlining the facts and circumstances is expected within 30 days.

In a statement, United Airlines adds its maintenance team is also evaluating the aircraft and that a full safety investigation is underway. The airline also confirmed the flight crew has been removed from service as part of standard procedure.

Meanwhile, Boardley’s father tells FOX45 his son is fortunate to be alive, but is not ready to speak publicly. He claims the family has retained attorney J. Wyndal Gordon to represent Boardley. FOX45 reached out to Gordon for comment but has not yet received a response.