An armed man caused a lockdown at Orlando International Airport (MCO) on Tuesday evening, prompting a large police response and widespread panic among travelers. The incident began around 7:24 p.m. when reports of an armed individual surfaced in Terminal A. Orlando Police Department (OPD) swiftly responded, securing the area and initiating negotiations.
Orlando Airport Incident: Suspect Contained, No Active Shooter
OPD confirmed via Twitter that there was no active shooter and no shots were fired. The suspect was “contained” and communicating with a crisis negotiator. While the man was not immediately taken into custody, the situation was brought under control without any reported injuries. The airport spokeswoman, Carolyn Fennell, confirmed to the Orlando Sentinel that the first floor of Terminal A was initially cleared, followed by the closure of the entire terminal.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Orlando Airport Scare
Glorializ Colón Plaza, an employee at Virgin Atlantic airlines, witnessed the unfolding events firsthand. She recounted to the Orlando Sentinel that she saw the suspect on the ground near the rental car area, shouting loudly while surrounded by law enforcement. Plaza stated that prior to the incident, the man allegedly warned bystanders, saying, “You’re going to need mental therapy after this,” before brandishing a firearm. She emphasized that she did not hear gunshots or observe any injuries.
Travel Disruptions and Road Closures at MCO
The incident led to significant travel disruptions. Images circulating on social media depicted a substantial police presence and anxious passengers concerned about missed flights. The Florida Highway Patrol announced the closure of all roads leading to the airport, urging people to remain in their vehicles and avoid the area.
Earlier Airport Incident in Florida Recalled
This incident evokes memories of the tragic shooting at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport earlier this year, where an Alaskan man fatally shot five people in the baggage claim area. While the Orlando Airport situation was resolved without violence, it underscores the heightened security concerns at airports nationwide.
