US man stabs 2 passengers and pilot before fatally shot while hijacking small plane in Belize
Authorities at the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (P.G.I.A.) in Belize were alerted to a terrifying incident involving a U.S. man attempting to hijack a small plane on Thursday. The man, identified as Akinyela Taylor, reportedly stabbed two passengers and a pilot before one of the passengers, who was licensed to carry a firearm, fatally shot him. The heroic passenger then turned his weapon over to the police, with Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams referring to him as a “hero.”
The hijacking took place on the air flight Cessna Caravan V3HIG from Corozal to San Pedro, which had 14 passengers and 2 crew members on board. A full emergency was declared as soon as the incident began, and the aircraft circled in random directions for approximately two hours before landing safely at the P.G.I.A., according to a statement by the Belize Airport Concession Company.
Williams mentioned that Taylor was a U.S. military veteran, although U.S. officials could not confirm this information. The motive behind Taylor’s hijacking remains unknown, and U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that officials were still gathering information about the incident.
The U.S. officials expressed gratitude that the situation did not result in a mass casualty event, considering the number of individuals on the plane. They are collaborating with Belizean authorities to investigate the incident further and determine the circumstances surrounding the hijacking.
The Associated Press contributed to this report, providing valuable insights into the harrowing incident at the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize. The bravery of the passenger who intervened in the hijacking is commendable, showcasing courage in the face of danger. The airport authorities and law enforcement agencies are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew members involved in the incident.
