Chaos unfolded at Miami International Airport when a couple’s frustration over missing their flight to Mexico escalated into an assault. Rafael Seirafe-Novaes and Beatriz Rapoport De Campos Maia allegedly attacked airline staff, leading to their arrest, NBC Miami reports.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office described the altercation, during which a cup of coffee was thrown in the face of an American Airlines employee. The incident was captured on camera, prompting law enforcement to surround American Flight 2494, which was minutes from takeoff. According to the sheriff’s office, the couple attempted to force their way onto the aircraft despite being late.
Authorities responded with about six deputies, as seen in video coverage shared by the New York Post. Seirafe-Novaes faces charges of resisting an officer without violence and trespassing, while Maia faces two counts of battery and trespassing.
A representative for Miami International Airport confirmed the incident, noting MDSO’s involvement in the ongoing investigation. American Airlines, the airline involved, condemned the violence, stating, "Prior to boarding American Airlines flight 2494from Miami (MIA) to Cancun (CUN), law enforcement responded to the gate for two disruptive customers. Acts of violence are not tolerated by American Airlines and we are committed to working closely with law enforcement in their investigation," in a statement obtained by the NBC Miami.
