An Arizona realtor, identified as Layne Arthur Lundeen, 67, was reportedly duct-taped to his seat on an American Airlines flight after an alleged mid-air tirade. The incident, which occurred on a flight from Dallas, Texas, to Newark, New Jersey, on a Thursday night, led to an emergency landing in Baltimore. According to claims made by his seatmate, controversial author Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, the outburst was triggered by a discussion about religion.

The Alleged Outburst and Restraint

Video footage circulating from the flight showed Lundeen restrained with duct tape. Passengers intervened after Lundeen allegedly began a homophobic and racist rant. The plane was diverted to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), where Lundeen was met by authorities and subsequently arrested. Following his removal, the flight continued to Newark.

Seatmate’s Account of the Escalation

Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, known for his writings on biblical prophecy and current events, stated that he and Lundeen had engaged in a seemingly amicable conversation about their religious beliefs for approximately two hours. Cahn, who leads the Beth Israel Worship Center, described the interaction as initially friendly before taking a sudden and dramatic turn.

Cahn claims that Lundeen, who he believes had consumed a small amount of alcohol, became enraged without apparent provocation. According to Cahn’s account, Lundeen began cursing at him and at God. Lundeen reportedly identified himself as a realtor and mentioned being on his third marriage. He allegedly expressed disillusionment with Christianity, feeling judged by believers after a divorce.

Cahn stated he attempted to offer encouragement, referencing Jesus’s interactions with religious hypocrites. However, Cahn alleges that when he began sharing his personal experiences with faith, Lundeen’s demeanor shifted drastically. Cahn described Lundeen’s expression and voice changing, leading to Lundeen allegedly dismissing Cahn’s words with a vulgarity and escalating to curses directed at Cahn and religious figures.

Physical Altercation and Threats

The situation reportedly escalated further when Lundeen allegedly became physically aggressive. Cahn claims Lundeen grabbed him by the throat and pushed him. While Cahn described the actions as seemingly playful, he also characterized them as threatening and bizarre. He reported that Lundeen made vulgar comments about a male flight attendant.

Cahn recounted that he tried to de-escalate the situation by showing Lundeen his new book, “The Altar of Pergamon,” on his laptop. However, Cahn alleges that upon seeing the book cover, Lundeen became violent. Cahn described the experience as “demonic” and felt Lundeen was influenced by negative forces. He claims Lundeen struck him and made threatening remarks, including a racial slur directed at Cahn’s Jewish heritage.

Fearing for his safety, Cahn stated he attempted to retrieve his laptop. During a struggle for the device, Cahn alleges Lundeen broke his laptop and aggravated an existing injury to Cahn’s arm. The commotion drew the attention of other passengers and the flight crew.

Passenger Intervention and Law Enforcement Response

Two male passengers, identified as retired police officer Juan Mejia and store manager Richard Olenick, intervened to restrain Lundeen. They reportedly used duct tape to secure him to his seat. Olenick corroborated Cahn’s account, stating that Lundeen had struck his seatmate and grabbed his throat before being subdued.

Upon arrival in Baltimore, Maryland Transportation Authority Police took Lundeen into custody. He was charged with disorderly conduct and second-degree assault. The FBI Baltimore Field Office is reportedly investigating the in-flight incident. Paramedics assessed Lundeen, noting an open wound on his arm.

Professional Repercussions and Cahn’s Reaction

Following the incident and the viral spread of video footage, Lundeen was terminated from his position as vice president at Long Realty, a real estate company in Tucson, Arizona. The company’s CEO, Kevin Kaplan, issued a statement emphasizing that Lundeen’s alleged conduct was inconsistent with the company’s values of professionalism and respect.

Rabbi Cahn stated he does not intend to pursue legal action against Lundeen. He expressed hope for Lundeen’s well-being, suggesting that Lundeen may not have been fully aware of his actions due to being “out of control.” Cahn noted he heard Lundeen lost his job and wished him the best.

Official Statements and Background

American Airlines confirmed the flight diversion was due to a “disruptive customer” and reiterated its commitment to safety and security, stating that violence is not tolerated. Maryland Transportation Authority Police confirmed the arrest and charges but declined to comment on the specifics of Cahn’s account, only confirming an incident involving an unruly passenger.

Rabbi Cahn has previously drawn attention for his controversial interpretations of biblical prophecy and his views on contemporary social and political issues. Reports from 2019 noted his comparisons of the 9/11 attacks to divine punishment and his commentary on societal trends like abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.

Lundeen was released on his own recognizance following his arrest. The investigation into the mid-air altercation is ongoing.