Southwest flight attendant dies during Hawaii layover, authorities investigate

Southwest Airlines said a 50-year-old flight attendant died during a layover in Honolulu on Aug. 20, prompting an unattended death investigation by the Honolulu Police Department. The airline confirmed it is cooperating with authorities and offered condolences to the employee’s family and coworkers.

Jenny Lupton had worked as a flight attendant for 29 years, including 26 with Southwest, and was a mother of a 15-year-old son. Her niece described her as a "bright person" who loved her family and her hometown of Moore, Oklahoma. Lupton had traveled to Hawaii for work and intended to stay several days before returning to Oklahoma.

Police said detectives are conducting interviews, reviewing surveillance video and examining evidence, but have not released further details. The Honolulu Department of the Medical Examiner indicated the death may have resulted from a fall from a balcony of a 24th-floor hotel room at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, where her body was found near a waste bin.

Family members expressed concern that the death was not a suicide and called for a thorough investigation, noting Lupton had recently discussed plans for a new tattoo. The Oklahoma Attorney General’s office said it is in contact with the Hawaii Attorney General to ensure a proper investigation and is staying in touch with the Lupton family.