Picture Credits: American Airlines
Connecticut, United States: A Kansas man is facing federal charges after allegedly attacking a flight attendant aboard an American Airlines flight, prompting an emergency return to the departure airport.
The incident occurred on American Airlines Flight 3359 on 27 May, which had departed from Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, and was bound for Chicago. Roughly 30 to 60 minutes into the flight, 24-year-old Julius Jordan Priester, a resident of Wichita, reportedly began acting erratically.
According to official statements from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement, Priester removed his shirt and began moving frantically around the cabin, shouting for help. He then grabbed a seated flight attendant by the collar, pulled them from their seat, and began dragging them toward the front of the aircraft while shouting, “You’re coming with me.”
Quick-thinking passengers and crew members intervened to restrain him. The flight crew declared an emergency, and the aircraft safely returned to Bradley International Airport, where law enforcement and emergency responders were waiting.
Upon landing, Priester was taken into custody by Connecticut State Police and later transferred to a local hospital for evaluation. No injuries to passengers or crew have been officially reported, though the assaulted flight attendant was visibly shaken.
Priester has been charged in federal court with interference with flight crew members and attendants, a serious offense that can carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. He appeared in a U.S. District Court in Hartford and is currently being held pending a bond hearing scheduled for May 30.
American Airlines issued a formal statement after the event, commending the flight crew and passengers for their swift response. The airline reaffirmed its strict zero-tolerance policy toward any form of violence or interference with crew members.
Federal authorities, including the FBI and Connecticut State Police, continue to investigate the incident. As of now, no further details have been released regarding Priester’s motives or mental health status.
Aviation authorities have repeatedly reminded the public that any behavior threatening the safety of passengers or crew will be met with severe legal consequences.
