A disturbing incident occurred on October 25, 2025, involving a 28-year-old Indian national on a Lufthansa flight from Chicago, Illinois, to Germany. The individual, identified as Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, has been formally charged in the United States after allegedly stabbing two teenage passengers with a metal fork and assaulting another passenger during the flight. The situation escalated to such a degree that the flight was diverted to Boston Logan International Airport for safety reasons, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.

The details of the incident, as outlined in the official charging documents, paint a shocking picture of violence on board. Usiripalli reportedly attacked a 17-year-old male passenger, stabbing him in the shoulder, and another 17-year-old male passenger, striking the back of his head with a metal fork. Both victims sustained lacerations requiring medical attention. During attempts by the flight crew to restrain him, Usiripalli allegedly simulated having a firearm by forming a gun shape with his fingers, placing it in his mouth, and pretending to pull the trigger.

The assault did not stop there. Usiripalli reportedly turned to a female passenger seated to his left and slapped her. He also allegedly attempted to slap a member of the flight crew, further escalating the threat to passengers and staff on the plane. His erratic and violent behavior prompted the crew to take immediate control of the situation, ultimately leading the captain to divert the flight to Boston Logan International Airport.

Following the diversion, authorities arrested Usiripalli on the same day, October 25. He has been charged with assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm while traveling on an aircraft, a serious federal offense in the United States. The legal consequences for this crime are significant. If convicted, Usiripalli faces a maximum prison term of ten years, up to three years of supervised release following incarceration, and a potential fine of up to $250,000.

Further complicating the situation, U.S. authorities noted that Usiripalli currently lacks lawful immigration status. He previously held a student visa while enrolled in a master’s program in biblical studies, but that status has since expired. This factor may play a role in his legal proceedings and potential deportation following any criminal conviction.

Incidents such as these, while rare, highlight the unique security challenges faced by airlines and aviation authorities. Federal regulations strictly govern conduct aboard commercial flights, recognizing that passengers and crew are in a confined space where violent behavior can pose a severe risk to everyone on board. Assaulting passengers or crew members, particularly with a weapon—even an improvised one such as a metal fork—is treated as a federal crime under U.S. law, and perpetrators can face severe penalties, as seen in this case.

Authorities have emphasized that swift intervention by the flight crew helped prevent further injuries. Crew training in handling unruly passengers, de-escalation techniques, and coordination with air traffic control were critical in safely diverting the flight and ensuring passengers received medical attention promptly. Boston Logan International Airport’s emergency response teams were also activated upon landing to manage the aftermath of the incident and assist injured passengers.

The victims, both teenagers, reportedly sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Medical personnel at the airport provided initial treatment, and further care was arranged as necessary. The female passenger who was slapped did not sustain serious injuries but was shaken by the incident. Flight crews and airline representatives are providing support and follow-up services to all passengers affected by the traumatic event.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office has stated that Usiripalli is expected to appear in federal court in Boston at a later date for proceedings related to his charges. Given the severity of the alleged acts, federal prosecutors are likely to pursue strict penalties if he is found guilty. The case will also consider the implications of his immigration status, potentially affecting sentencing and subsequent deportation procedures.

The Lufthansa incident underscores the importance of airline safety protocols, including the secure handling of weapons and other potentially dangerous items, passenger screening, and crew readiness to respond to in-flight emergencies. Aviation authorities continuously review and enhance security measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, prioritizing the safety and well-being of passengers and crew on all commercial flights.

As the case develops, further information about the legal proceedings, potential court dates, and statements from the victims and airline officials are expected to emerge. The situation has also drawn attention to the broader issue of in-flight violence and the responsibilities of passengers to comply with federal and airline regulations to ensure the safety of everyone on board.

Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli’s actions on October 25 have serious legal and personal consequences, reflecting the gravity of assaulting fellow passengers and crew during commercial air travel. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, adherence to safety regulations, and the capacity of trained airline personnel to manage unexpected and dangerous situations effectively.