Passenger Arrested After Allegedly Trying to Open Plane Door and Stabbing Flight Attendant

A United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston was forced to make an emergency landing in Denver after a male passenger allegedly attempted to open the emergency exit door mid-flight and stabbed a flight attendant. The incident took place on Thursday evening, according to U.S. authorities.

The passenger, identified as a 20-year-old man from Los Angeles, is said to have become agitated and unruly during the flight. Witnesses reported that he was trying to open the emergency door while the plane was still in mid-air, prompting the flight attendant to intervene.

The man allegedly attacked the flight attendant with a sharp object, causing non-life-threatening injuries. Passengers and crew members were able to restrain the suspect after a brief struggle, and he was subsequently detained by law enforcement officials upon landing.

The FBI is currently investigating the incident, which is being treated as a serious crime. The suspect is expected to face multiple charges including assault, interfering with a flight crew, and attempted murder.

The flight, which was carrying 174 passengers and six crew members, eventually arrived in Boston several hours later. United Airlines released a statement condemning the incident and praising the crew’s response.

“Our primary focus is always on the safety and well-being of our customers and employees,” the statement read. “We are proud of our crew who responded quickly to protect their fellow crew member and customers.”