Teen charged after allegedly trying to board Jetstar flight with a gun
A 17-year-old has been arrested after he allegedly attempted to board a Jetstar flight at Avalon Airport armed with a gun.
The incident occurred around 2.20pm on Thursday, and it is believed that the teenager from Ballarat hid in his car before cutting a hole through a fence around the airport’s perimeter.
The teenager wore a high-vis jacket and tool belt, and reportedly told crew members that he was there to carry out maintenance work.
Crew members and passengers managed to detain the teenager near the front door of the plane, after passenger Barry Clark noticed the teenager was carrying a shotgun and detained the boy in a headlock until police arrived.
“Before we knew it, a shotgun appeared, and I was worried about it being shot, so all I could do was push her out of the way, get the gun out of the way, break that gun and throw it down the stairs, and then put him in a hold, throw him to the ground until the police came,” he told ABC Radio Melbourne.
Police also allegedly found two bags and a vehicle belonging to the boy, with the bomb squad called in to assist.
The boy has since been charged with eight offences including unlawfully taking control of an aircraft, endangering the safety of an aircraft and taking part in a bomb hoax.
He was remanded in custody to appear at a children’s court at a later date.
Victoria Police Superintendent Michael Reid released a statement saying it was "very concerning" that the teen was able to breach security.
“It would have been a very frightening experience for those passengers involved, but once again I do really commend the bravery of those civilian passengers that helped assist to overpower him.”
Avalon Airport has reopened following the incident, with chief executive Ari Suss assuring that further security measures have been implemented.
“We want to reassure the public that the safety of our passengers, staff, and community remains our highest priority,” he said.
“We continue to work closely with authorities to ensure a safe and secure environment for all travellers.
“This matter continues to be managed by Victoria Police, and we are fully supporting their ongoing investigation.”
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