by Chicago – A shocking mid-air assault forced a Lufthansa flight traveling from Chicago to Germany to make an emergency diversion to Boston after a passenger allegedly stabbed two teenagers with a metal fork, federal authorities said on Monday.
Incident on Lufthansa Flight
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts, the accused has been identified as Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, 28, an Indian national who was traveling aboard Lufthansa Flight 431 from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Munich, Germany.
The violent incident unfolded shortly after the in-flight meal service on Saturday, October 26, when Usiripalli allegedly used a metal fork from the meal tray to attack two 17-year-old passengers sitting nearby.
Authorities said one of the teens was asleep in the middle seat when he awoke to find Usiripalli standing over him, holding the fork. Moments later, the suspect allegedly lunged at the boy, striking him near the left clavicle. In the chaos that followed, he reportedly stabbed another 17-year-old in the back of the head, leaving the second victim with a laceration.
Crew and Passengers Step In
According to prosecutors, the flight crew quickly intervened to restrain Usiripalli. However, his behavior reportedly grew even more erratic.
“After the attacks, the defendant formed his hand into the shape of a gun, placed it in his mouth, and mimicked pulling the trigger,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a statement.
The suspect then allegedly slapped a female passenger and attempted to strike a flight attendant before being subdued by crew members and passengers.
The captain decided to divert the aircraft to Boston’s Logan International Airport, where federal agents and Massachusetts State Police were waiting. Upon landing, Usiripalli was immediately arrested and taken into custody.
Criminal Charges Filed
Usiripalli has been charged with one count of assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm. The U.S. Attorney’s Office confirmed that he was brought before a federal magistrate judge in Boston on Monday.
So far, no attorney has been listed to represent him, and prosecutors said it is unclear whether he has obtained legal counsel.
The injured teens received medical assistance after the flight landed, though their injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening.
Background of the Accused
According to court documents, Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli had previously entered the United States on a student visa. Federal officials said he was enrolled in a master’s program in biblical studies but no longer maintains lawful immigration status in the U.S.
Officials have not disclosed what may have triggered the outburst on the flight or whether mental health issues may have played a role in the incident.
The FBI’s Boston Division is leading the investigation, as the alleged crimes occurred on an international flight bound for the U.S..
Possible Legal Consequences
If convicted, Usiripalli could face several years in federal prison, deportation, and additional penalties related to immigration violations. Assault with a deadly weapon on an aircraft is considered a serious federal offense under U.S. law.
“Passenger safety is our top priority,” the Department of Justice said in a statement. “Acts of violence aboard an aircraft will be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible.”
Airline’s Response
Lufthansa issued a brief statement confirming that Flight LH431 was diverted to Boston “due to a disruptive passenger incident.” The airline thanked the crew and passengers for their “swift and professional response” in ensuring the safety of everyone on board.
“Safety is paramount on all Lufthansa flights,” the airline added. “The matter is now in the hands of U.S. authorities.”
Read Also: Nebraska Teacher and Boyfriend Arrested for Allegedly Sex Trafficking a Student
Investigation Ongoing
Federal investigators are continuing to examine what led to the attack, including reviewing flight surveillance footage, passenger statements, and medical reports from the victims.
Authorities have not indicated whether mental health evaluations or toxicology tests have been ordered for Usiripalli.
The case underscores the growing concerns over passenger violence on commercial flights, an issue that has led to stricter enforcement policies by both airlines and federal regulators in recent years.
What Happens Next
Usiripalli remains in federal custody and is expected to appear in court for a detention hearing later this week. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said it will seek to keep him detained pending trial due to the nature of the charges and his lack of legal status in the country.
For continued coverage and updates on this developing story, visit race-day-live.com.
