United flight scare after onboard attack
A major incident unfolded aboard a United Airlines flight after a passenger allegedly attacked a crew member and attempted to access the cockpit, prompting an emergency response upon landing.
The disturbance occurred on United Flight 1837, which was traveling from Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic to Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. Authorities reported that a 48-year-old man became violent during the flight, assaulting a flight attendant and trying to force his way toward the flight deck.
Audio recordings from air traffic control captured the urgency of the situation. An airport worker informed controllers that the pilot intended to declare an emergency, explaining that a passenger had attacked a crew member and attempted to open a forward cabin door. Initially, the seriousness of the situation was not fully understood, but the tone quickly shifted as more details emerged.
The pilot then directly requested immediate assistance, asking for a gate and law enforcement to meet the aircraft upon arrival. Emergency vehicles were dispatched to the scene as the plane landed safely at approximately 5:21 p.m.
Law enforcement officers detained the suspect shortly after landing, around 6 p.m. He was later taken to a local hospital for a psychiatric evaluation. Officials confirmed that one person on board declined medical treatment, and no serious injuries were reported.
In a statement, United Airlines said local authorities met the aircraft upon arrival to handle an unruly passenger and thanked the crew for maintaining safety during the incident.
