by Boston, MA – A shocking incident unfolded aboard a Lufthansa flight from Chicago to Frankfurt when a 28-year-old master’s student from India allegedly attacked two teenagers with a metal fork, resulting in an emergency landing in Boston. The unsettling and unprovoked rampage left passengers and crew members traumatized and prompted federal charges.
Disturbing Assault at 30,000 Feet
Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, a graduate student enrolled in a biblical studies program, reportedly stood over a sleeping 17-year-old passenger after meal service and stabbed him in the left clavicle with a metal fork. The violence did not stop there—Usiripalli then targeted another 17-year-old, stabbing him on the back of the head, causing a laceration.
- The first victim suffered a stab wound to the clavicle.
- The second victim sustained a head laceration after being stabbed in the back of the head.
Unprovoked Rampage and Crew Intervention
As the flight crew moved to intervene, Usiripalli allegedly “formed a gun with his fingers, put it in his mouth, and pulled the trigger,” according to prosecutors. He also slapped a female passenger and attempted to strike a crew member. This erratic behavior forced the pilots to declare an emergency and divert the flight to Boston Logan International Airport, where Usiripalli was taken into custody immediately.
“He formed a gun with his fingers, put it in his mouth and pulled the trigger,” prosecutors said, describing the suspect’s alarming behavior during the incident.
Legal Status and Charges
Federal authorities revealed that Usiripalli does not have lawful status in the United States, though he was previously admitted on a student visa. He now faces serious federal charges:
- One count of assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm while traveling on an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States.
- Potential penalties include up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $250,000.
- His next court appearance will be in Boston federal court at a future date.
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Context and Airline Response
This incident has raised concerns about passenger safety and mental health aboard international flights. Lufthansa has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding the situation. For more detailed coverage, visit the official source: New York Post.
What Happens Next?
Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind Usiripalli’s unprovoked attack. Meanwhile, passengers and crew who experienced the trauma are likely receiving support as the legal process unfolds.
Have Your Say
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