A Breeze Airways flight from Norfolk, Virginia, to Los Angeles had to make an emergency landing in Grand Junction, Colorado, after a passenger turned violent and disruptive. The incident on August 13, 2025, involved 47-year-old David Leroy Carter Jr., who now faces federal charges for interfering with the flight crew and endangering others on board.
What Happened on the Flight
The trouble started mid-flight when Carter, a Los Angeles resident, appeared intoxicated and began acting out. Crew members tried to calm him, but things escalated quickly.
Witnesses reported that Carter shouted racial slurs at a flight attendant and made crude sexual remarks. He also threatened to hit another passenger and spat chewing tobacco at someone’s face.
Flight attendants attempted to restrain him with zip ties, but Carter broke free twice. During one struggle, he injured a crew member’s hand by lunging at her.
After breaking loose again, Carter removed his belt and wrapped it around his knuckles, ready to fight. He even waved a skateboard as a potential weapon, heightening the fear among passengers.
The pilot decided to divert the plane to Grand Junction Regional Airport for safety. Local authorities met the flight and arrested Carter on the spot.
Details from the Criminal Complaint
Federal prosecutors in Colorado filed charges against Carter for interfering with flight crew members and attendants. The U.S. Attorney’s Office released more details in a criminal complaint.
According to the document, Carter’s behavior created chaos that forced the diversion. He ignored repeated warnings and continued to threaten people.
One key point in the complaint highlights how Carter’s actions led to minor injuries. A flight attendant suffered a hand injury during the restraint attempt.
Carter also directed racist insults and physical threats at both crew and passengers. This level of disruption is rare but has led to stricter rules on airlines in recent years.
The complaint notes that Carter seemed under the influence of alcohol, which fueled his aggressive outburst. Such incidents have spiked since the pandemic, with the FAA reporting over 2,000 unruly passenger cases in 2024 alone.
Passenger Intervention and Viral Video
As the situation worsened, a fellow passenger stepped in to help. Described as a large, muscular man, he physically restrained Carter and forced him back into his seat.
A video of the confrontation went viral on social media. In it, the intervener tells Carter to sit down firmly, preventing further harm.
This act of bravery likely stopped things from getting worse. Passengers praised the man for his quick thinking.
The video shows Carter yelling and resisting, but the helper keeps control until the plane lands. Such citizen interventions have become more common in recent flight disturbances.
Here are some key moments from the incident captured in reports:
- Carter breaks free from zip ties twice.
- He uses a skateboard to threaten others.
- A passenger steps in to subdue him.
- The flight diverts after about two hours in the air.
Court Appearance and Charges
Carter appeared in federal court in Grand Junction on August 15, 2025. He faces serious charges that could lead to prison time.
The judge ordered him held without bail due to the flight risk and nature of the offenses. Prosecutors argue his actions endangered everyone on board.
If convicted, Carter could face up to 20 years in prison under federal aviation laws. The FBI and FAA are investigating further.
This case joins a growing list of unruly passenger prosecutions. In 2024, the Department of Justice handled over 200 similar cases, up from previous years.
Experts say alcohol and stress contribute to these events. Airlines now train crews better to handle them.
Impact on Breeze Airways and Passengers
The diversion delayed the flight by several hours. Passengers continued to Los Angeles later that day on another plane.
Breeze Airways issued a statement thanking the crew and passengers for their patience. The airline stressed safety as its top priority.
One passenger suffered minor injuries from Carter’s actions, but no one needed hospital care. The flight attendant’s hand injury was treated on site.
This incident highlights ongoing issues in air travel. With rising passenger numbers in 2025, airlines report more disruptions.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Flight Number | Breeze Airways 704 |
| Original Route | Norfolk, VA to Los Angeles, CA |
| Diversion Location | Grand Junction, CO |
| Date of Incident | August 13, 2025 |
| Passenger Involved | David Leroy Carter Jr., 47 |
| Charges | Interfering with flight crew |
| Potential Penalty | Up to 20 years in prison |
| Injuries | Minor to one attendant and one passenger |
Broader Context in Aviation Safety
Unruly passengers have become a hot topic in aviation. The International Air Transport Association noted a 15 percent rise in such incidents globally in 2024.
Factors include alcohol service on flights and post-pandemic travel stress. Some airlines have cut back on in-flight drinks to reduce risks.
Recent events, like a similar diversion on a Delta flight last month, show the pattern. Authorities push for harsher penalties to deter bad behavior.
Passengers now often record these moments, leading to quick public awareness. Social media amplifies the stories, pressuring airlines to act fast.
What This Means for Travelers
If you fly often, know that crews are prepared for disruptions. Reporting issues early can prevent escalations.
Federal laws protect airline staff, and violators face bans from flying. Carter may end up on a no-fly list if convicted.
Travel experts recommend staying calm and following rules. With air travel booming in 2025, safety remains key.
We want to hear from you. Have you witnessed unruly behavior on a flight? Share your stories in the comments below, and pass this article along to fellow travelers for awareness.
