A disruptive incident onboard an American Airlines flight led to an emergency landing at Buffalo Niagara International Airport on July 3. According to authorities, Neil McCarthy, a 25-year-old from Oregon, was arrested and charged with indecent exposure in connection with the alleged incident. McCarthy allegedly exposed himself and urinated in the aisle during the flight from Chicago to Manchester, New Hampshire.
American Eagle flight 3921, operated by Envoy Air, was en route to Manchester when the incident occurred. The disruptive passenger’s actions prompted the flight crew to make an emergency landing. Police boarded the aircraft upon landing and spoke with a flight attendant who witnessed the incident. They then escorted McCarthy off the plane for questioning.
During police questioning, McCarthy claimed to have consumed multiple “Jack and Cokes” before boarding the flight in Portland and several more during his layover in Chicago. He stated that he had a “medical urination problem” and was “flicking the bean” when he returned to his seat after using the bathroom.
A passenger on the flight provided police with a photo of McCarthy allegedly exposing himself in the aisle. The authorities have charged McCarthy with indecent exposure, and he is expected to appear in court on July 25.
American Airlines released a statement acknowledging the incident and expressing gratitude towards their team members and customers for their understanding. The flight eventually departed after the emergency landing.
If convicted, McCarthy could face a maximum sentence of six months in prison and a $5,000 fine.