A transatlantic Lufthansa flight from Chicago to Frankfurt made an emergency landing in Boston after a 28-year-old Indian passenger allegedly attacked two teenage boys with a metal fork during the journey, U.S. authorities said.

The suspect, Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, was taken into custody at Boston Logan International Airport on Saturday, October 25, after the aircraft’s crew and passengers managed to restrain him mid-flight, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.

Sudden Attack During Meal Service

Investigators allege that the disturbance began shortly after the meal service, when one of the teenage passengers, aged 17, was asleep in a middle seat. He reportedly woke to find Usiripalli standing above him, striking his shoulder area with a metal fork.

Prosecutors say the assailant then lunged at another 17-year-old seated nearby, injuring the back of his head. One teen sustained a laceration, while the other was struck near the clavicle.

Crew Intervention and Erratic Behaviour

As the crew attempted to control the situation, Usiripalli’s behavior became increasingly erratic. Officials said he made a finger-gun gesture, pointed it into his mouth, and mimed pulling the trigger.

“Immediately afterwards, Usiripalli allegedly turned toward a female passenger to his left and slapped her with his hand. Usiripalli also allegedly attempted to slap a flight crew member,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office stated.

Emergency Landing and Arrest

Given the violence on board, the pilots decided to divert the aircraft to Boston, where authorities boarded the plane upon landing. Usiripalli was immediately arrested and charged with one count of assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm while traveling on an aircraft.

No other passengers or crew members sustained major injuries, and the two teenage victims received medical care after landing.

Background of the Accused

According to federal prosecutors, Usiripalli is an Indian national who had previously entered the United States on a student visa. He was enrolled in a master’s program in biblical studies, but no longer holds lawful immigration status in the country.

Officials have not disclosed a possible motive for the attack, and it remains unclear whether the suspect has legal representation at this time.

Possible Penalties

If found guilty, Usiripalli could face up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of as much as $250,000.

The incident adds to growing concerns about mid-air disturbances in recent years, prompting renewed attention to airline safety and in-flight mental health responses.