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American Airlines 'working with a vendor' to repair Temple veteran's wheelchair damaged during flight

American Airlines said they contacted the veteran and are working with a vendor to handle repairs after his wheelchair was damaged during a flight.

TEMPLE, Texas — UPDATE: American Airlines contacted 6 News to say they apologized to the veteran and are working with a vendor to handle repairs.

What should have been a celebratory return from Louisville following the Wheelchair Games turned into a hassle for a Marine veteran who says American Airlines' negligence left him with a broken wheelchair.

David Villarreal said when he flew back to Austin Wednesday he could hear the sounds of ramp agents throwing his belongings around the cargo hold. When he got his items back, his wheelchair and bow and arrow were damaged.

Villarreal said this isn't the first time he's struggled with the airline.

"The last time I flew American Airlines to and from Cincinnati, they lost my luggage both ways," Dave said in a Facebook. "Yesterday, after they kept changing our flights all day, they lost my archery bow, air rifle and two bags. To top it off, I have to drive back down to Austin to get my luggage because they will not deliver my air rifle. Plus, they broke parts of my wheelchair."

Villarreal said the cost of his wheelchair is covered by the VA, but he knows others like him are not so lucky. 

He said he wants to see the airline be held accountable.

"I try not to let these things affect me because it's things like this that cause my strokes," Villarreal said. "I try to let these things go away, but enough is enough."

Villarreal's friends took to social media to share his story and show their support.

American Airlines said in a reply to Villarreal's friend that it was an 'honor to share the skies with those who serve' and asked Villarreal reach out to them in a direct message.

6 News reporter Bary Roy also reached out the airline and heard back, asking for for a response and clarification.

The airline submitted the following statement:

“We apologize to Mr. Villarreal for the negative experience he had on his flight, and thank him for his service. We hold all those serving our country and veterans in the highest regard. We are reviewing the incident internally and have reached out to the customer directly to apologize and to help.”

American Airlines also said their team spoke to Villarreal personally to apologize. They are now working with a vendor to handle repairs.

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