Lufthansa flight flew for 10 minutes without conscious pilot, investigation reveals
Share this @internewscast.com

A Lufthansa flight en route from Chicago to Frankfurt had to make an emergency landing on October 25 after a man reportedly attacked two teenagers with a metal fork during a disruptive incident, officials reported.

Federal authorities have charged 28-year-old Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, an Indian national, with assault in connection to the events on Lufthansa Flight 431.

Due to the situation, the aircraft was redirected to Boston Logan International Airport, as stated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.

Lufthansa planes

Following the incident, Usiripalli was accused of assault with a dangerous weapon with the intent to cause bodily harm while aboard an aircraft under U.S. jurisdiction, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

The charging documents revealed that the altercation began shortly after meal service, when a 17-year-old passenger, who had been napping lightly, awoke to find Usiripalli standing over him.

The release also said charging documents allege that shortly after meal service, a 17-year-old passenger who had been lightly asleep awoke to find Usiripalli standing over him.

Usiripalli allegedly stabbed the teen who was sleeping in the left clavicle with a metal fork, then lunged at another 17-year-old seated nearby, striking him in the back of the head with the same utensil, per the release.

The second victim suffered a laceration to the rear of his head.

When crew members intervened, prosecutors said, Usiripalli raised his hand in the shape of a gun, placed his fingers in his mouth, and mimed pulling the trigger.

Lufthansa

Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli faces federal assault charges after allegedly stabbing two 17-year-old passengers with a fork on a Lufthansa flight from Chicago. (Reuters)

He then allegedly turned toward a female passenger and slapped her across the face before attempting to slap a flight attendant.

Officials said the disturbance prompted the flight’s diversion to Boston, where law enforcement officers met the aircraft and took Usiripalli into custody.

According to prosecutors, Usiripalli had previously entered the United States on a student visa and was most recently enrolled in a master’s program in biblical studies. He currently lacks lawful immigration status.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Usiripalli is expected to appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Lufthansa for comment.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Gunman arrested more than 30 years after shooting bound couple in front of their 3-year-old son in NYC apartment: feds

Decades-Old NYC Cold Case Solved: Gunman Arrested for 1980s Double Shooting in Front of Child

After more than three decades, justice has caught up with the gunman…
Spencer Pratt accuses Karen Bass’s crew of getting MAGA merch at White House

Spencer Pratt Alleges Karen Bass’s Team Acquired MAGA Merchandise at the White House

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass recently returned from Washington, D.C., with more…
FBI Chicago investigating travel agent Ryne Vitug of South Elgin, accused of taking money from customers, not booking trips

FBI Probes South Elgin Travel Agent Ryne Vitug for Allegedly Pocketing Customer Funds Without Booking Vacations

In South Elgin, Illinois, the ABC7 I-Team has launched an investigation into…
New Jersey Rep. Tom Kean Jr. goes missing amid mysterious health concerns

Breaking: New Jersey Rep. Tom Kean Jr.’s Disappearance Sparks Health Crisis Concerns

WASHINGTON — New Jersey Representative Tom Kean Jr. has been notably absent…
2026 NFL Draft: Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, whose mother Ashley Griggs died in Chicago shooting, drafted No. 4 overall

2026 NFL Draft: Ohio State’s Carnell Tate Honors Late Mother Ashley Griggs, Secures No. 4 Pick

In a significant moment for both the athlete and his supporters, Carnell…
UFO writer, paranormal YouTuber dies in suicide at home after mental health call: police

Tragic Loss: Renowned UFO Writer and Paranormal YouTuber’s Untimely Death Raises Mental Health Awareness

This article contains discussions about suicide. If you or someone you know…
At Tiny Doll House, craft the fun-sized world of your dreams

Discover Your Dream Miniature Realm: Explore Creativity at Tiny Doll House

NEW YORK — Nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side,…
Ex-Alabama girls high school basketball coach charged with ‘deviant’ sex with student, dumped by husband

Shocking Scandal: Former Alabama Coach Faces Charges for Inappropriate Relationship with Student

A former high school basketball coach from Alabama, once praised as an…
St. Johns County man convicted of capital sexual battery, state attorney says

Breaking News: St. Johns County Man Found Guilty of Capital Sexual Battery – State Attorney Confirms

A 22-year-old man from St. Johns County has been found guilty of…
Odds for California governor sway massively after snorefest debate

California Governor Race Heats Up as Debate Shifts Betting Odds Dramatically

Last night’s gubernatorial debate in California appears to have shifted the momentum…
Former North Carolina police officer arrested for allegedly planning mass shooting at New Orleans festival

Ex-North Carolina Police Officer Detained for Suspected Plot to Stage Mass Shooting at New Orleans Festival

A former police officer from North Carolina has been apprehended in Florida…
Prince Harry makes surprise visit in Ukraine in show of support during war

Prince Harry’s Unexpected Visit to Ukraine: A Heartfelt Show of Support Amid Conflict

In a surprise move, Prince Harry paid a visit to Ukraine’s capital,…