Retired police chief and off-duty deputies subdue unruly passenger on United flight

A United Airlines Boeing 737-900 traveling from Newark to Fort Lauderdale experienced a prolonged disturbance when a passenger, upset after being refused more alcohol, shouted profanities and threatened crew members for roughly 45 minutes. Retired Minneapolis police chief Brian O'Hara, seated with his wife, watched flight attendants work to de-escalate the situation before the man attempted to stand and charge at the staff.

Two passengers identified as off-duty Bergen County sheriff’s deputies intervened, and O'Hara joined them to restrain the individual with plastic flex cuffs, returning him to his seat. The crew then resumed their duties and the aircraft landed safely. United Airlines said local law enforcement met the plane upon arrival in Fort Lauderdale, and the flight carried 174 passengers and six crew members.

Authorities have not yet released the passenger’s identity or any charges. O'Hara later urged airlines to equip crews with restraints and training for violent incidents.