Retired Fire Captain Arrested for Assaulting United Airlines Gate Agent at Dulles

A man from Maryland was charged with assault after punching a United Airlines gate agent. He was mad about being assigned a middle seat.

Violence at the Gate: Passenger Punches Airline Employee

A Maryland man was arrested and charged with assault and disorderly conduct after allegedly attacking a United Airlines gate agent at Dulles International Airport.

Authorities say 54-year-old Christopher Stuart Crittenden punched the airline employee at Gate D12 on the evening of March 13. Crittenden, identified through LinkedIn as a retired Montgomery County Fire Department Captain, was caught on camera as the altercation unfolded, with a bystander recording the incident.

Gate Agent Hospitalized After Attack

Following the assault, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority’s fire and rescue department responded to the scene, transporting the injured gate agent to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials have not disclosed the extent of the employee’s injuries.

Airport authorities quickly intervened, taking Crittenden into custody and charging him with assault and disorderly conduct. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and officials have not confirmed whether the dispute was related to flight delays, cancellations, or other travel issues.

United Airlines Bans Crittenden for Life

United Airlines has taken swift action in response to the assault, stating that Crittenden is now permanently banned from flying with the airline.

His court appearance and potential legal consequences remain pending as authorities continue their investigation.

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