An Arizona realtor was duct-taped to his seat by fellow passengers on an American Airlines flight from Dallas to Newark after allegedly launching a homophobic and racist tirade. The incident forced the plane to make an emergency landing in Baltimore.
Layne Arthur Lundeen, 67, a realtor from Tucson, reportedly became enraged after a conversation about religion with author Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, who was seated next to him. Cahn claims the discussion, which had been friendly for two hours, took a sudden violent turn. According to Cahn, Lundeen became incensed after discussing their differing religious views and Cahn's new book.
"His face changed, his voice changed, and he said... almost in a whisper, he was like, 'I have something to tell you,' and he said, 'Bulls***,'" Cahn alleged. "He's getting louder, and he starts cursing God, cursing Jesus, cursing me. And then he said, 'Go f*** yourself.'"
Cahn, the leader of Beth Israel Worship Center, stated that Lundeen, who identified himself as a realtor on his third marriage and a former Christian who rejected Jesus after a divorce, allegedly grabbed him by the throat, hit him, and broke his laptop during the struggle. Cahn also reported hearing Lundeen make a vulgar comment about a male flight attendant's genitals. While Cahn stated he did not specifically hear racial slurs, other reports indicate Lundeen used the N-word toward a Black flight attendant and made homophobic remarks.
Maryland Transportation Authority Police arrested Lundeen at the Baltimore airport on charges of disorderly conduct and second-degree assault. He has since been released on a recognizance bond.
American Airlines confirmed the flight diverted due to a "disruptive customer" and stated that the safety and security of passengers and crew is a top priority, adding that the airline does not tolerate violence.
Following the incident, Lundeen was fired from his position as vice president at Long Realty in Tucson, Arizona. The company stated that Lundeen's alleged conduct was inconsistent with their expectations of professionalism and respect.
Rabbi Cahn indicated he does not plan to pursue legal action but hopes Lundeen gets better, suggesting he was out of control. The FBI Baltimore Field Office is investigating the mid-air altercation. Officers noted an open wound on Lundeen's arm when taking him into custody.