Briton faces court after US flight diverted
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A British man was due to appear in a US court today after being hauled off a transatlantic flight for unruly behaviour.
John Alexander Murray, 50, from Glasgow, was arrested by police at Logan International Airport in Boston, Massachusetts, shortly after 11pm yesterday (4am GMT).
Officers said he had been arguing with other passengers, but did not appear to be drunk.
At East Boston District Court today, Mr Murray is due to be charged with interfering with a flight crew, Sergeant Richard Connelly of Massachusetts State Police said.
The US Airways flight from Philadelphia was due to fly non-stop to London.
But it was diverted to Boston after crew became concerned over the behaviour of Murray.
Airline spokesman Todd Lehmacher said the pilot decided that the Briton needed to be removed ahead of the Atlantic crossing "in the interest of safety".
Shortly after Flight 728 grounded at Boston at 11.08pm local time (4.08am GMT), officers arrested Murray and transported him to cells ahead of today's court date.
As to the nature of the disturbance, Sgt Connelly said: "He was given some instruction on the flight and he did not abide to it."
"He was arguing and causing a disturbance with other passengers."
The sergeant, who is based at the airport, added that the detained man was not drunk and that further details would be available after the end of today's court hearing.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments