In a tense situation that could have escalated, an armed teenager was restrained by fellow travelers at Avalon Airport, as police confirmed he had claimed to possess bombs.
Flight Tragedy Averted: Armed Teen Tackled at Australian Airport
Flight Tragedy Averted: Armed Teen Tackled at Australian Airport
A 17-year-old boy, armed with a shotgun, was subdued by brave passengers and crew on a Jetstar flight. Authorities confirmed he's facing multiple charges.
On March 7, 2025, a potentially dangerous scenario unfolded at Avalon Airport in southeastern Australia when a 17-year-old boy attempted to board a Jetstar flight bound for Sydney while armed with a shotgun. Fortunately, passengers and crew sprang into action, detaining the teenager until police arrived at the scene, averting what could have been a tragic incident.
As reported by law enforcement, the youth had entered the aircraft, which was scheduled to carry around 150 passengers, when staff noticed him dressed in a high-visibility vest and a tool belt, ostensibly attempting to blend in. According to witness Barry Clark, who was also traveling to Sydney for a football match, the situation escalated when crew members began questioning the teenager about his identification before allowing him onto the plane.
Clark recounted, “He got agitated and before we know it, there was a gun, a shotgun appeared.” Acting quickly, he managed to restrain the teen by locking his arm, forcing him to the floor, and keeping him subdued until police forces could take control of the situation.
Victoria Police responded promptly, arriving at Avalon Airport shortly after 2:20 p.m. local time. They subsequently arrested the teenager and confirmed he would face multiple charges related to the incident. In addition, authorities reported that they found two bags and a vehicle linked to the teenager, prompting them to utilize a bomb response unit as a precaution while examining these items. Fortunately, no injuries occurred during the entire ordeal, showcasing the quick thinking and bravery of those who intervened.
As reported by law enforcement, the youth had entered the aircraft, which was scheduled to carry around 150 passengers, when staff noticed him dressed in a high-visibility vest and a tool belt, ostensibly attempting to blend in. According to witness Barry Clark, who was also traveling to Sydney for a football match, the situation escalated when crew members began questioning the teenager about his identification before allowing him onto the plane.
Clark recounted, “He got agitated and before we know it, there was a gun, a shotgun appeared.” Acting quickly, he managed to restrain the teen by locking his arm, forcing him to the floor, and keeping him subdued until police forces could take control of the situation.
Victoria Police responded promptly, arriving at Avalon Airport shortly after 2:20 p.m. local time. They subsequently arrested the teenager and confirmed he would face multiple charges related to the incident. In addition, authorities reported that they found two bags and a vehicle linked to the teenager, prompting them to utilize a bomb response unit as a precaution while examining these items. Fortunately, no injuries occurred during the entire ordeal, showcasing the quick thinking and bravery of those who intervened.
