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Hero who duct-taped violent Arizona realtor to plane seat speaks out after suspect fired from Tucson firm
FOX 10 Phoenix • • business
Key Points:
- An Arizona real estate agent, Layne Arthur Lundeen, was fired after a violent outburst on an American Airlines flight forced passengers to restrain him midair using zip ties and duct tape.
- The incident occurred on a Sept. 3 flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark, which made an emergency landing in Baltimore after Lundeen attacked a seatmate, bit rescuers, and used racial and homophobic slurs.
- Passengers, including a retired police officer, intervened to subdue Lundeen, who was physically aggressive and left visible bite marks on one of the rescuers; flight attendants provided materials to restrain him safely.
- Long Realty, Lundeen’s employer, condemned his behavior and terminated his employment immediately, emphasizing their commitment to professionalism and respect.
- American Airlines praised the crew and passengers for their quick response, while the FBI is investigating to determine if federal charges will be pursued in addition to state offenses.
