Passenger arrested for disorderly conduct after bizarre incident at Atlanta airport
Travelers are seen going through Hartsfield Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia on July 2nd, 2022 ahead of the week of July 4th. (Photo by Nathan Posner/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
ATLANTA - A bizarre incident unfolded Monday at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport when a disruptive passenger, later identified as Lezlie Hernandez Zapata, created a commotion at gate E1, according to the Atlanta Police Department. The incident, which began shortly before noon, resulted in a series of eyebrow-raising events.
Zapata's troubles began when she was informed that her boarding pass was denied due to her disruptive behavior, police say. Airport police, from the Atlanta Police Airport Section, responded to the situation and attempted to escort her from the gate to the terminal.
Refusing to enter an officer's vehicle, Zapata allegedly attempted to make a daring escape attempt, prompting officers to engage in a swift pursuit. Despite her attempts to flee, officers caught up to Zapata, pushed her to the ground, and took her into custody.
Zapata was then transported to the airport precinct where Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were called in to evaluate the woman for injuries.
While at the precinct, Zapata reportedly continued her disruptive behavior, spitting on multiple officers, urinating on herself and removing the majority of her clothing. Officers scrambled to manage the situation, covering Zapata with available items.
She was cleared by EMS for transportation to jail and was subsequently transported to Clayton County Jail. Zapata is facing charges of Disorderly Conduct and Obstruction of Law Enforcement Officers.
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The reason for the woman's disruptive behavior has not been identified by the police department. Police also did not release any other personal information about the passenger.
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