An American Airlines flight from Dallas to Newark experienced significant disruption when a passenger was arrested following aggressive behavior onboard. The individual, identified as 67-year-old Arthur Lundeen from Arizona, was restrained by fellow passengers using duct tape and plastic ties until the flight landed at Baltimore-Washington Airport after diverting from its original route.
The incident occurred on Thursday evening, and witnesses reported that Lundeen became unruly shortly before arrival. Eyewitness accounts indicated that he verbally abused both the crew and other passengers with racist remarks and vulgar language.
Juan Mejia, a former police officer who intervened, told ABC News that he felt compelled to act as the situation escalated and Lundeen became physically aggressive.
“We didn’t intend to hurt him. Our goal was to restrain and control him to prevent the situation from worsening,” Mejia explained, with the assistance of a friend who was accompanying him.
Lundeen Charged with Disorderly Conduct and Assault
Mejia and his friend stayed with Lundeen until authorities boarded the aircraft and took him into custody upon landing in Baltimore. The Maryland Transportation Authority Police reported that Lundeen faces charges of disorderly conduct and assault related to the incidents that occurred aboard the aircraft.
Upon arrest, Lundeen was evaluated by paramedics for an open wound on his arm. American Airlines confirmed that the passenger was removed from the plane, which subsequently continued its journey to Newark.
The airline emphasized, “The safety and security of our customers and team members is our top priority, and we do not tolerate violence.” The FBI and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are continuing to investigate the incident.
