A Frontier Airlines flight traveling from Puerto Rico to Chicago was disrupted by a terrifying mid-flight incident involving a passenger who attempted to breach security protocols. The unidentified traveler reportedly tried to pry open exit doors and force entry into the cockpit, prompting an emergency diversion to Miami.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the passenger ignored multiple instructions from flight attendants to remain seated. During the disturbance, the passenger allegedly attempted to choke an off-duty flight attendant who had been monitoring him in his row.

Josh Longood, a fellow traveler and former professional MMA fighter, stepped in to neutralize the threat. Recounting the ordeal, Longood stated: “Luckily, I’m a light sleeper and was only a row away when this all went down.”. Longood and other passengers worked alongside the crew to secure the individual. Despite being zip-tied, the man continued to fight back, forcing Longood to remain physically involved until the landing: “After these pics, he slipped the ties, so I had to hold him down until our emergency landing in Miami”. He concluded: “Glad everyone made it home safely, hoping my next flight is significantly more boring.”.

Upon arrival in Miami, the passenger was arrested and charged with a misdemeanor count of battery. Frontier Airlines confirmed that law enforcement removed the individual and the flight eventually resumed its journey to Chicago.