Man Charged for Stabbing Two Teens with Fork on Chicago-Germany Flight
A serious incident unfolded on a Lufthansa flight from Chicago to Germany when a passenger attacked two teenagers with a fork. The disturbance led to an emergency diversion of the flight to Boston Logan International Airport.
Incident Overview
Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, a 28-year-old Indian national, has been charged with assaulting two 17-year-old boys during the flight. This event occurred on a Saturday, and it highlights ongoing tensions within the aviation industry.
Details of the Attack
Authorities revealed that Usiripalli used a metal fork to stab one victim in the shoulder and another in the back of the head. The first boy, who was sleeping, awoke to find Usiripalli looming over him. The second victim was seated nearby and was also attacked.
Flight Diversion and Arrest
Following the assault, flight crew attempted to control Usiripalli’s behavior, during which he made threatening gestures, including forming a gun with his fingers. He slapped a woman and tried to hit a crew member before being subdued.
As a result of this chaos, the flight had to be diverted to Boston. Usiripalli was subsequently arrested by law enforcement.
Legal Consequences
Usiripalli now faces a charge of assault with a dangerous weapon, which carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. He is scheduled to appear in federal court in Boston at a future date.
Background Information
- Usiripalli was in the United States on a student visa.
- He had been enrolled in a master’s program in biblical studies.
- Currently, he does not have lawful status in the country.
This incident raises questions about security and safety within commercial flights, especially during times marked by significant airline delays and staffing shortages.
