Belmopan [Belize]: A terrifying mid-air incident unfolded on Thursday aboard a Tropic Air flight in Belize, when a knife-wielding US citizen attempted to hijack the aircraft en route to San Pedro, injuring three passengers before being fatally shot by a fellow traveler, according to the New York Post, citing local authorities.
The attacker, identified as Akinyela Sawa Taylor, 49, reportedly began assaulting passengers with a knife during the flight. Belize Commissioner of Police Chester Williams confirmed Taylor’s identity and hailed the armed passenger who intervened as a “hero” for preventing a greater tragedy.
Authorities have not yet determined how Taylor managed to bring the weapon onboard. The US Embassy in Belize has been contacted and is cooperating with local law enforcement as the investigation continues.
The three injured individuals are currently receiving medical care, and no additional fatalities have been reported.