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US citizen attempts to hijack plane in Belize, shot dead by passenger

ANI April 18, 2025 340 views

A 49-year-old American attempted to hijack a Belize-bound flight with a knife, wounding three people. The attacker, identified as Akinyela Sawa Taylor, was fatally shot by a passenger during the mid-air assault. Belize authorities praised the armed passenger as a hero while launching an investigation into the security breach. The US Embassy has been notified as officials work to determine how the weapon was smuggled aboard.

"The passenger who intervened is a hero" – Chester Williams, Belize Police Commissioner"
Belmopan, April 18: A knife-wielding US citizen attempted to hijack a small Tropic Air plane in Belize on Thursday (local time), injuring three people before being shot dead by a fellow passenger, the New York Post reported, citing officials.

Key Points

1

US citizen Akinyela Sawa Taylor attacked passengers mid-air

2

Knife-wielding hijacker shot dead by fellow traveler

3

Belize officials investigating how weapon bypassed security

4

US Embassy assisting with probe

The incident occurred mid-air on a flight bound for San Pedro, when the 49-year-old suspect started attacking passengers with a knife.

The assailant was later identified as Akinyela Sawa Taylor, a US citizen, according to Belize Commissioner of Police Chester Williams.

Commissioner Williams praised the passenger who intervened and shot Taylor, calling them a "hero", as reported by the New York Post.

Authorities said that it remains unclear how Taylor managed to bring a knife onto the plane.

Belizean officials have contacted the US Embassy for assistance in the ongoing investigation into the incident.

Reader Comments

J
James K.
That passenger who stepped in is a true hero! Can't imagine how terrifying that must have been for everyone on board. Security needs to tighten up though - how did a knife get through? 🔍
S
Sarah M.
So tragic all around. The attacker clearly needed help, but the other passengers had to defend themselves. Mental health resources are so important to prevent these situations.
T
Trevor L.
The article mentions this was a small plane - makes me wonder if security is more lax on regional flights compared to major airlines. Either way, glad the situation was contained.
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Maria P.
While I understand the need for self-defense, I wish the article had more details about de-escalation attempts. Was there no way to subdue him without lethal force? Just a thought.
D
David R.
Flew Tropic Air last year - their security did seem more relaxed than US airports. Maybe this will prompt some changes. Kudos to the quick-thinking passenger though! 👏

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Tags:
Belize hijacking Tropic Air incident Akinyela Sawa Taylor US citizen crime plane attack
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