An ongoing strike by 33,000 Boeing machinists took a concerning turn on Monday as tensions ran high at the company's main hub in Seattle. A security guard, employed by contract security company Allied Universal, flashed a gun during an altercation with workers picketing outside the facility. The incident occurred at a Boeing parts distribution center located at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, where reports of protestors blockading the property had emerged.

According to the King County Sheriff's Office, the guard displayed the gun as he was leaving the premises. While there were no indications that he pointed it at anyone, the incident prompted sheriff's deputies to respond swiftly. The guard left the scene without any further altercations or acts of violence.

Boeing swiftly condemned the incident, deeming it "unacceptable." The company assured its employees that it respected their right to peaceful picketing and emphasized the need for everyone to feel safe. In a statement, Boeing expressed cooperation with the ongoing investigation carried out by the King County Sheriff's Office.

Allied Universal, the security company employing the guard, declared that it is actively investigating the "alleged incident at the Boeing facility in Seattle," although the individual in question has already resigned and is no longer employed.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM District 751), the union representing the striking assembly workers, did not respond to requests for comment regarding the altercation.

Tensions between Boeing and the striking workers have been escalating. The aircraft manufacturer announced that it was freezing new hires due to the strike, which began three days prior, citing potential risks to their business.

The strike was initiated after workers voted overwhelmingly to reject a proposed wage increase of 25% over four years. It fell short of the union's demand for a 40% pay raise over three years. The IAM District 751 also sought the restoration of traditional pensions, which were abolished ten years ago, but settled for increased contributions by Boeing to employees' 401(k) retirement plans.

The striking workers, who are responsible for the production of Boeing's 737 Max, 777 commercial jet, and 767 cargo plane, operate in factories located in Renton and Everett, Washington. It is important to note that Boeing 787 Dreamliners are built by nonunion workers in South Carolina.

Boeing has been grappling with financial setbacks and a damaged reputation even before the strike. The company suffered losses exceeding $25 billion since the start of 2019 due to various manufacturing issues and has faced investigations by federal regulators.

IAM District 751 announced that their negotiating committee would enter into mediation with Boeing on Tuesday. While the mediator's role is to help facilitate discussions and find common ground, they do not possess the authority to enforce specific terms on either party. Both Boeing and the union are hopeful that mediation will lead to a resolution amidst the ongoing strike.