Travellers were shocked at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International airport on Saturday. A traveller’s firearm suddenly went off after panicking at customs. This was announced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Officials have given an all-clear for #ATLAirport and normal operations are beginning. Information for passengers and employees will be provided on ATL’s social media feeds and in the airport’s public address system.
— Atlanta Airport (@ATLairport) November 20, 2021
The 42-year-old man wanted to go through customs with a firearm in his luggage. When the customs officer said he saw a prohibited item after scanning the luggage, the man panicked. Although the man was not allowed to touch his bag, he reached for the firearm that set it off. The man then fled with the weapon.
An unintentional gun discharge in the Atlanta airport caused mass panic today among passengers who thought there was an active shooter.
In 2014, Georgia lawmakers passed a NRA-supported “guns everywhere” law allowing loaded guns inside airports. #gapol pic.twitter.com/fmUnV4GA3f
— Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) November 20, 2021
No injuries were reported, a police spokesman said. Videos show terrified travellers running out of the departure lounge or hiding on the floor. Arrest warrants have since been issued against the man whose identity was already known to authorities. He is charged with possession of a gun, firing a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon at a commercial airport and reckless conduct.
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