Passenger Smashes American Airlines Counter with Hammer Over Fake Ticket

In a dramatic outburst at Santiago’s Nuevo Pudahuel Airport, a Haitian man caused significant damage after learning that the American Airlines ticket he had was fake. The incident occurred late Monday as the man, who was hoping to fly to Florida, discovered that his ticket was fraudulent and not valid for travel.

The situation escalated quickly when, in a fit of rage, the man pulled a hammer from his bag and began smashing the computers and large check-in screens at the American Airlines counter.

Bystanders watched in shock as he wreaked havoc on the airport’s equipment. Security personnel and airport staff were questioned about how the man managed to bring a hammer into the airport and how the situation was allowed to escalate.

Prior to the rampage, the man had a brief argument with American Airlines staff, who informed him that he had been scammed and that his ticket was not legitimate. This revelation triggered his violent reaction.

Local police estimate that the damage caused by the man’s outburst amounts to approximately $22,000. The Western Santiago Prefecture Police confirmed that they have taken the man into custody following the incident.

An American Airlines spokesperson acknowledged the disruption, confirming that a “disruptive individual” had caused a scene at their check-in counter. The airline expressed gratitude to their staff for their professionalism during the incident and apologized to customers for any inconvenience caused.