Baggage Handler Caught on Camera Destroying Guitars at LAX

Viral video sparks outrage from musicians and calls for accountability

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:57pm

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring a stark, jagged black silhouette of a shattered guitar, symbolizing the destruction of musical instruments, set against a high-contrast red and white background.A viral video of a baggage handler's reckless treatment of guitars sparks outrage and calls for accountability in the music industry.Los Angeles Today

A disturbing video has surfaced showing a baggage handler at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) recklessly tossing and damaging guitar cases, sparking widespread condemnation from musicians and music fans across social media. The incident has raised concerns about the proper handling of valuable musical instruments and the need for better training and oversight in the airline industry.

Why it matters

Musical instruments are essential tools of the trade for many artists, and the careless destruction of these items can have significant financial and emotional impacts on musicians. This incident highlights the need for improved policies and procedures to ensure the safe transport of fragile cargo, as well as a broader conversation about the value we place on artistic expression and the livelihoods it supports.

The details

The viral video, which has amassed millions of views, shows the baggage handler aggressively throwing guitar cases onto the tarmac, displaying a clear disregard for the delicate nature of the instruments. Prominent musicians, including Dorothy, Stevie Mackey, and Chris LaPlante, have expressed their outrage and disappointment over the incident, emphasizing the importance of these tools to their careers and the need for better handling practices. Eyewitness Nick Ruiz, a college student who filmed the video, described the situation as 'wrong' and highlighted the long journey the instruments had undertaken before meeting this unfortunate fate.

  • The incident occurred on April 10, 2026 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
  • The viral video was posted online shortly after the incident and has since amassed millions of views.

The players

Dorothy

A prominent rock singer who took to social media to express her dismay over the incident and call for improved luggage handling practices.

Stevie Mackey

A singer and producer who shared an emotional reaction to the video, stating that his 'heart aches' over the destruction of the musical instruments.

Chris LaPlante

A touring guitarist who suggested that he wished the incident had been handled by AI technology, rather than a human baggage handler.

Jonny Hawkins

The frontman of the band Nothing More, who advocated for a public shaming ritual as a form of accountability for the baggage handler's actions.

Nick Ruiz

A college student who filmed the viral video and described the situation as 'wrong', highlighting the long journey the instruments had taken before being damaged.

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What they’re saying

“Do better & correct your staff on proper luggage handling.”

— Dorothy, Rock Singer

“My heart aches.”

— Stevie Mackey, Singer and Producer

“First time I've wanted something to be AI.”

— Chris LaPlante, Touring Guitarist

“Public shaming ritual.”

— Jonny Hawkins, Frontman of Nothing More

“Wrong.”

— Nick Ruiz, College Student

What’s next

The airport has announced that it will be launching an investigation into the incident and reviewing its luggage handling protocols to ensure better protection for valuable cargo, such as musical instruments.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater care and respect when handling the tools of artistic expression. It highlights the emotional and financial impact that careless actions can have on musicians, and underscores the importance of implementing robust policies and training programs to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.