An American Airlines flight from Phoenix to Minneapolis was forced to make an unscheduled emergency landing in Denver on Friday evening after a passenger became disruptive. The incident occurred approximately one hour into the journey when the pilot announced a 'security issue in the back' and informed passengers of the diversion.
According to reports, the man, described as white with dreadlocks, allegedly told other passengers he was under the influence of cocaine. He then locked himself in the bathroom for about 10 minutes before returning to his seat, appearing jittery. Flight attendants attempted to coax him out but were unsuccessful.
Upon landing at Denver International Airport around 6.30pm, authorities including Denver Police and EMTs boarded the aircraft. Video footage shows the man lighting a joint and then punching another passenger in the head as passengers in the first 13 rows were instructed to deplane. Law enforcement detained the man and removed him on a gurney.
Denver Police later stated that the issue was deemed more medical than criminal, and the man was taken to hospital. His current condition and whether he will face charges remain unclear. The aircraft continued to Minneapolis after a two-hour delay.
American Airlines released a statement thanking those who assisted, saying: 'Flight 2408 diverted due to a disruptive passenger. Law enforcement met the flight, and the aircraft re-departed.'
