American Airlines flight from Connecticut to Chicago was forced to return to Bradley International Airport after a passenger became violent on board, prompting an emergency declaration.
The incident occurred Tuesday night approximately 30 minutes into the hour-long flight when 24-year-old Julius Jordan Priester, a Kansas resident with a criminal history, began exhibiting erratic behavior. Priester removed his shirt, shouted for help, and proceeded to assault a flight attendant by grabbing him by the collar and forcing him to the ground while insisting, "You are coming with me." Attempts by passengers to restrain Priester ultimately returned him to his seat, but he continued to act unrestfully and speak incoherently.
Due to the severity of the disturbance, the flight crew declared an emergency and diverted the aircraft back to its departure airport in Connecticut. Upon landing, Connecticut State Police escorted Priester off the plane, and he was transported by ambulance to a hospital for evaluation. Authorities arrested him at the hospital.
Priester faces federal charges of interference with flight crew members and attendants, which carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison.
American Airlines released a statement confirming the incident, noting, "On May 27, American Eagle flight 3359, operated by Envoy, returning to Hartford (BDL) from Chicago (ORD), was disrupted by a customer. We do not tolerate violence and thank our team members for their professionalism and our customers for their assistance."
