Panic in the Sky! US Military Member ‘Threatens’ Bomb on Airplane – Immediately Arrested

San Diego, CA – A U.S. Navy technician has been identified as the suspect arrested for allegedly making a false bomb threat on board a Hawaiian Airlines flight preparing for takeoff from San Diego International Airport. The Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department announced the arrest of John Stea, 35, following the incident on Tuesday.

According to a statement from the Harbor Police, Stea, an Electronics Technician 2nd Class assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Group One, was onboard Hawaiian Airlines flight 15 when he reportedly told a flight attendant that the passenger next to him possessed a bomb. This occurred as the aircraft was pulling away from the jetway, preparing for its departure to Honolulu, Hawaii.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Third Fleet confirmed the arrest to Fox News Digital, stating, “The Navy is aware Electronics Technician 2nd Class John Stea, assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Group One, was arrested by San Diego Harbor Police on May 20 following an alleged bomb threat.” The spokesperson added that the Navy prioritizes the safety of the public and its personnel, takes all threats seriously, and is fully cooperating with local and federal authorities.

The Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department deployed its Police Maritime Tactical Team, K-9 Team, and Joint Terrorism Task Force, along with the San Diego Fire Department and multiple federal agencies, to respond to the scene and conduct a thorough search of the aircraft and its contents. The plane’s captain taxied the aircraft to a secure location on the airfield, and all 293 passengers on board were deplaned and transported by bus to a safe area. K-9 units subsequently cleared the aircraft, including all carry-on and checked luggage.

Stea, identified by police as a “member of the military,” has been charged with making a false bomb threat and false report of a security threat.

Isai Solorzano, another Navy sailor who was a passenger on the flight, recounted his experience to FOX 5 KUSI. He stated that law enforcement officials boarded the plane and inquired about the owner of specific containers. “One guy stood up, (and) they immediately told him to turn around and put him in handcuffs,” Solorzano said. “They took him away.”

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.