Passenger on United flight attacks flight crew member with weapon (includes video story)

United flight 2609 started off normally, but viral videos captured the moment the flight turned into a terrifying cross-country trip.

Five hours into the journey from Los Angeles to Boston on Monday, authorities say Francisco Severo Torres began screaming threats from his seat. He then pulled out a makeshift weapon and attacked a member of the flight crew.

Passengers jumped into action in an attempt to subdue Torres.

“Many men jumped up, followed him, tackled him to the ground and probably about four to six of them that sat on top of him to restrain him,” said Lisa Olsen, a passenger.

The plane was able to land safely at Boston’s Logan International Airport, where Torres was arrested. He is now awaiting a hearing, where he faces a sentence of up to life in prison.

Amanda Gray

Producer

Amanda Gray is a Cuban-American student majoring in digital media at FIU. She intends to utilize her knowledge of writing, public speaking, editing, and social media management to pursue a career in non-profit work, bringing to life her passion for communication and advocacy. Gray has enjoyed extensive international travel and uses her global perspective to highlight and serve communities.