Panic breaks out at busy US airport after firearm goes off: ‘It happened by accident’ | Abroad

A Hartsfield-Jackson airport spokesman told CNN the incident came after it was determined that a weapon was found in a bag at one of the checkpoints. “When the officer or passenger picked up the weapon, it accidentally went off. The man who had brought the object with him then ran off,” said the spokesman. He emphasized that the identity of the man is known to the authorities.

Chaos

The loud noise caused confusion and chaos among the passengers. Many people plunged to the ground or fled. Suitcases and poles were pushed over. Some people tried to hide in airport restaurants or ran to the area outside where planes are parked. Air traffic was temporarily halted and passengers of at least one aircraft that had just landed were temporarily not allowed to leave the aircraft.

According to the airport, there was no danger to passengers or employees. An investigation has been launched. The entire airport is now operational again.

Thanksgiving

Atlanta Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. The incident also happened during one of the busiest weekends of the year for the airport. Thanksgiving is celebrated in the US on Thursday, so many Americans take a plane.

—