Passenger allegedly assaults Alaska Airlines crew members, forces emergency landing at Boise Airport
Share and Follow

A woman, aged 61, found herself in handcuffs on Tuesday after allegedly assaulting an Alaska Airlines crew member during a flight that was en route from Portland, Oregon, to Dallas. The incident led to an unscheduled stop at Boise Airport in Idaho.

Identified as Tracy Barkhimer from White Salmon, Washington, she faces two charges of misdemeanor battery, as detailed by the Boise Police Department.

According to police reports, Barkhimer’s behavior became erratic mid-flight. In her agitated state, she is accused of striking two airline employees who were trying to manage the situation.

Mug shot of Tracy Barkhimer

The altercation necessitated immediate action. Crew members restrained Barkhimer, leading to the decision to divert the flight to Boise Airport for safety reasons.

Barkhimer was restrained, and the flight was diverted to Boise Airport.

Just before 1:30 a.m., officers in the airport division were notified about the emergency landing and met with two victims who requested and signed affidavits for the citizen’s arrest, according to police.

Following an investigation, Barkhimer was removed from the plane without incident, taken into custody and booked into the Ada County Jail, officials said.

Sign welcoming airport patrons to Boise

The plane landed at Boise Airport before continuing on to Texas. (knowlesgallery/Getty)

Following a medical evaluation, Alaska Airlines said its crew was cleared to fly, and the aircraft continued on after a 90-minute delay.

Alaska Airlines told Fox News Digital that only one of its flight attendants was assaulted, though police records indicate there were two victims.

Boise, Idaho

At least one flight crew member was allegedly assaulted during the flight, according to police. The suspect was arrested by Boise police. (Zach Tuohy/Getty)

Barkhimer was banned from flying on the airline in the future, a spokesperson said.

“At Alaska Airlines, safety is our number one priority, and we do not tolerate violence of any kind against our employees,” Alaska Airlines wrote in a statement. “We are grateful to our crew for their professionalism, and we apologize for any concern or inconvenience this situation caused.”

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Indiana stuns Ohio State for Big Ten title after shocking missed field goal

Indiana Claims Big Ten Title with Dramatic Victory Over Ohio State After Missed Field Goal

Ryan Day’s expression was a reflection of disbelief. As the final moments…
Russia unleashes major drone, missile attack on Ukraine as US diplomatic talks continue

Russia Launches Significant Drone and Missile Offensive on Ukraine Amid Ongoing U.S. Diplomatic Discussions

In a dramatic escalation, Russia unleashed a significant assault on Ukraine overnight,…
Michael Porter Jr. leads Nets to win over Pelicans

Michael Porter Jr. Shines as Brooklyn Nets Triumph Over New Orleans Pelicans

The Brooklyn Nets have secured their third consecutive victory with Michael Porter…
Nigeria secures release of 100 schoolchildren abducted from Catholic school after weeks in captivity

Nigeria Successfully Frees 100 Abducted Schoolchildren from Catholic School After Weeks of Captivity

The Nigerian government has successfully negotiated the release of 100 schoolchildren who…
Packers-Bears game today: Chicago Bears face Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field with NFC North lead in the balance

Chicago Bears Take on Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field with NFC North Lead at Stake

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WLS) — A pivotal clash for the NFC North…
Ana De Armas leads the stylish stars at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Ana De Armas Shines Among Fashion Icons at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Ana De Armas and Emily Ratajkowski were among the fashion-forward celebrities who…
San Diego considers $30 million settlement in police-involved shooting death of Black teen

San Diego Deliberates $30 Million Settlement in Police-Related Fatality of Black Teen

The City Attorney’s Office in San Diego has agreed to a substantial…
Our Chicago: Indiana redistricting map supported by Donald Trump being considered by state Senate ahead of 2026 midterms

Indiana Redistricting Map Endorsed by Trump Awaits State Senate Review Ahead of 2026 Midterms

In Indiana, a significant controversy is brewing over proposed changes to the…