At Orlando International Airport on Tuesday night, a heated altercation between several customers and Spirit Airlines employees escalated to a point that led to the arrest of one of the customers.
Witnesses report that a large group had congregated at the ticket counter and began to yell at the Spirit employees. 41-year-old Edward Hariston was among the group, and his behavior became so unruly that he allegedly reached over the counter and started pounding on the airline’s computer keyboard. A woman associated with Hariston also reportedly stood on the baggage scale and screamed at the attendants.
In an effort to prevent Hariston from causing further damage to the property, a police officer at the scene attempted to grab the arm he was using to press the keys. Hariston then allegedly overpowered the officer, forcing him to the ground and placing him in a chokehold that was so strong that the officer began to lose consciousness. Other officers eventually rushed in and restrained the suspect, allowing the officer to break free.
Hariston was arrested and taken to the hospital for evaluation. He has since been charged with attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, battery on a law enforcement officer, and disorderly conduct.
The entire incident was captured on video by another Spirit customer and shared on TikTok. The user, @leximaarieee, noted that their flight was canceled as a result of the altercation and vowed to never fly with Spirit again. Neither Spirit Airlines nor the public defender’s office representing Hariston responded to requests for comment.