Unprovoked Attack Leaves Victim Bloodied; Incident Adds to Growing Concerns Over In-Flight Aggression
A man has been charged with felony assault following an unprovoked attack on a fellow passenger who was asleep on a United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Dulles International Airport on Monday. The incident, which involved multiple punches to the victim’s face and head, was halted by a fellow passenger who intervened to stop the assault, according to FBI reports.
Attacker Identified as Everett Chad Nelson
The suspect, identified as Everett Chad Nelson, reportedly left his seat near the back of the aircraft, used a lavatory toward the front, and then approached the sleeping passenger. Without warning, Nelson began punching the man repeatedly, resulting in bruises around his eyes and a gash on his nose, with blood reportedly staining Nelson’s windbreaker, as detailed in an FBI affidavit.
The FBI confirmed that Nelson was restrained and moved to a seat near the front of the plane for the remainder of the journey. The passenger who stopped the attack monitored Nelson to ensure no further disruptions.
United Airlines Praises Crew and Passengers for Swift Response
United Airlines issued a statement commending the quick actions of both crew and customers who helped restrain the assailant. “Thanks to the quick action of our crew and customers, one passenger was restrained after becoming physically aggressive toward another customer,” United said, adding that paramedics and law enforcement were waiting upon landing to assist.
The airline confirmed that there were 82 passengers and six crew members onboard at the time of the incident.
Nelson Held in Custody Until Trial Scheduled for December
A federal magistrate ordered that Nelson remain in custody until his trial on December 11, citing the severity of the evidence, as well as Nelson’s lack of stable employment and residence. The public defender representing Nelson has yet to comment on the case.
