An American Airlines flight was diverted to Baltimore after a passenger, identified as 67-year-old Arizona realtor Layne Arthur Lundeen, allegedly engaged in a homophobic and racist tirade, leading to fellow passengers restraining him with duct tape. The incident occurred on a flight from Dallas, Texas, to Newark, New Jersey.
Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, an author known for linking biblical prophecy to current events, claimed he was sitting next to Lundeen and that the outburst began after a two-hour discussion about religion escalated rapidly. Cahn stated that Lundeen became enraged after their conversation touched upon 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 recounted to the Daily Mail.
According to Cahn's account, Lundeen then began cursing at him and God, making homophobic comments about a flight attendant, and allegedly grabbed Cahn by the throat. Cahn also claims Lundeen attempted to wrestle his laptop away, breaking it during the struggle. Cahn, who described the turn of events as "demonic," eventually moved seats before the plane landed.
Maryland Transportation Authority Police found Lundeen restrained with duct tape and zip ties upon arrival in Baltimore. He was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and second-degree assault. The FBI Baltimore Field Office is investigating the in-flight incident. American Airlines confirmed the diversion was due to a "disruptive customer" and stated they "do not tolerate violence."
Following the viral footage of the incident, Lundeen was fired from his position as vice president at Long Realty in Tucson, Arizona. The company issued a statement emphasizing that Lundeen's alleged conduct was "wholly inconsistent with the professionalism, integrity, compassion, and respect for others" they expect from affiliated agents.
Cahn, who is not planning legal action, expressed hope that Lundeen "gets better," suggesting he was "out of control" during the incident. Court records indicate Lundeen was released on a recognizance bond.