Shocking Mid-Flight Assault: Everett Chad Nelson’s Unprovoked Attack on Sleeping Passenger

On October 30, 2024, a shocking incident unfolded aboard United Airlines Flight 2247, which was traveling from San Francisco to Washington, D.C. The flight, carrying 82 passengers and six crew members, became the scene of an unprovoked attack when Everett Chad Nelson, a 44-year-old Florida resident, violently assaulted a sleeping passenger. This incident has raised serious concerns about passenger safety and the increasing trend of unruly behavior in aviation.

Incident Overview

Approximately two hours into the flight, Nelson returned from the restroom and approached seat 12F, where the unidentified victim was sleeping. In a sudden and brutal act of violence, Nelson began to punch the victim repeatedly in the face and head for about one minute. Witnesses reported that the attack was shocking and unexpected, leaving many passengers in disbelief.

Nature of the Attack

The assault was not only violent but also left the victim with severe injuries. According to reports, the victim sustained bruises around his eyes and a gash on his nose. Blood from the attack splattered onto Nelson’s clothing, nearby seats, and even the aircraft’s walls and windows, creating a chaotic scene in the cabin.

“It was horrifying to see someone being attacked like that, especially when they were completely defenseless,” said one passenger who witnessed the incident.

Victim’s Condition

The victim, who has been described as deaf and non-verbal, was left in a state of shock following the assault. Medical personnel were waiting at Dulles International Airport to provide immediate assistance upon landing. The severity of the injuries has raised concerns about the long-term effects of such unprovoked violence on individuals, particularly those with disabilities.

Witness Accounts

Multiple passengers witnessed the brutal assault, and their accounts paint a vivid picture of the chaos that ensued. One witness described the scene as “utterly terrifying,” emphasizing the shock of seeing such violence unfold unexpectedly. Another passenger intervened, physically restraining Nelson until authorities arrived, showcasing the bravery of those on board.

Response from Crew and Passengers

The quick actions of both crew members and passengers were crucial in subduing Nelson and ensuring the flight landed safely. United Airlines praised the efforts of those involved, stating that their prompt response helped prevent further escalation of the situation. Upon landing at Dulles International Airport, paramedics and law enforcement were waiting to take control of the situation.

Legal Proceedings

In the aftermath of the incident, Everett Chad Nelson was charged with federal assault under the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. He is currently represented by a public defender and is scheduled to appear in court on December 11, 2024. If convicted, Nelson could face significant legal repercussions, including possible imprisonment for up to one year.

Background of the Suspect

Everett Chad Nelson’s background is as tumultuous as the incident itself. Once a leader of an ayahuasca church, he has a history that includes a career in computer engineering before turning to spiritual practices. This drastic shift in lifestyle raises questions about the factors that may have contributed to his violent behavior on the flight.

Federal Investigation

The FBI is currently investigating the incident as part of a broader trend of increasing unruly passenger incidents in aviation. In 2024 alone, there have been over 1,700 reported cases of such behavior, prompting authorities to take a closer look at the underlying causes and potential solutions to ensure passenger safety.

Conclusion

The mid-flight assault involving Everett Chad Nelson serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the aviation industry today. As incidents of unprovoked violence continue to rise, it is imperative for airlines, law enforcement, and federal agencies to work together to address these issues. The safety of passengers must remain a top priority, and measures should be taken to prevent such shocking events from occurring in the future.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the aviation community and the public will be watching closely, hoping for justice for the victim and a resolution to the growing problem of unruly behavior in the skies.