A 28-year-old Indian national, Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, has been charged in a US District Court following a disturbing incident on a Lufthansa flight traveling from Chicago to Germany. The accused allegedly attacked two teenagers with metal forks and also assaulted a female passenger.
The altercation took place on October 25 aboard Lufthansa flight 431. According to court documents, Usiripalli is accused of using a metal fork to stab a 17-year-old passenger in the shoulder while the minor was asleep. He then allegedly attacked another 17-year-old sitting nearby, causing a head laceration.
In addition to the physical assaults, Usiripalli reportedly made a gun gesture with his fingers, placed it in his mouth, and simulated shooting himself. He also allegedly attempted to slap a flight attendant after slapping a female passenger.
The escalating situation necessitated the flight’s diversion to Boston Logan International Airport, where Usiripalli was apprehended by authorities. He has been formally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon with the intent to cause bodily harm while traveling on an aircraft.
Usiripalli had reportedly entered the United States on a student visa and was pursuing a master’s degree in biblical studies. Authorities have stated that he currently lacks lawful status in the United States.