Rigoberto Alpizar Shot by Federal Air Marshals

December 7th, 2005

December 7th, 2005

Rigoberto Alpizar Shot by Federal Air Marshals
How Long Ago?

19 years, 3 months, 7 days ago

Location

Miami, Florida, United States

Category

Crime & Law

People
  • Rigoberto Alpizar
  • U.S. Federal Air Marshals
Links & References
Tags

Rigoberto Alpizar Shot by Federal Air Marshals

Rigoberto Alpizar, a passenger on American Airlines Flight 924, was shot and killed by U.S. federal air marshals at Miami International Airport. The incident occurred after Alpizar allegedly claimed to have a bomb on board. Law enforcement was alerted, leading to the fatal shooting as he attempted to flee the scene. The situation escalated to deadly force when marshals believed there was an imminent threat to public safety.

Alpizar claimed to have a bomb on a flight.

Federal air marshals responded to the threat.

Alpizar was shot while trying to flee.

Event raised questions about mental health in security.

What Happened?

Rigoberto Alpizar, a Costa Rican national, was flying on American Airlines Flight 924 from Miami to the Dominican Republic when he reportedly announced to fellow passengers that he had a bomb in his backpack. Following this alarming statement, other passengers alerted the crew, who communicated the situation to airport authorities. As the aircraft landed, federal air marshals on board initiated procedures to control the panic and ensure the safety of all individuals involved. When Alpizar attempted to exit the plane on the tarmac and flee, the marshals confronted him. In the ensuing moments, they fired multiple shots, resulting in his death. The incident raised questions about profiling, the use of force by law enforcement, and the safety protocols in place during air travel in the context of national security concerns after the September 11 attacks. Alpizar reportedly had a history of mental health issues, complicating the narrative surrounding his actions and intentions on the flight. The aftermath of the shooting spurred discussions on how airlines and security must handle passengers exhibiting unpredictable behaviors and threats.

Why Does it Matter?

The shooting of Rigoberto Alpizar is significant as it reflects the heightened state of alert and security measures within the United States following the 9/11 attacks. It underscored the challenges faced by air marshals and security personnel in discerning legitimate threats from mental health crises. This incident prompted law enforcement and aviation authorities to reevaluate protocols for managing disruptive passengers and addressing mental health concerns in potentially volatile situations.

Discover More Historic Events from December 7th

Military & Warfare

Syrian Opposition Forces Advance Near Damascus

December 7th, 2024 0 years ago

Syrian opposition forces made significant advancements into the Rif Dimashq Governorate, coming within 20 kilometers of the capital, Damascus. This maneuver illustrated the ongoing conflict dynamics in the region and showcased the opposition's capabilities. Their strategic positioning raised concerns among the Syrian government and its allies, who began reevaluating military strategies to counter this unexpected advance.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

William Atchison Shoots at Aztec High School

December 7th, 2017 7 years ago

William Atchison, a former student of Aztec High School, opened fire inside the school, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. Atchison entered the school armed with a handgun and began shooting in a hallway during school hours. The incident led to heightened fears regarding school safety, prompting discussions about gun control and mental health. Despite the quick response from law enforcement, the tragic event left lasting scars on the community, affecting students, families, and faculty members.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Pakistan International Airlines Flight 661 Crash

December 7th, 2016 8 years ago

A Pakistan International Airlines ATR-42-500 crashed near Havelian, killing all 47 passengers and crew on board. The flight was en route from Chitral to Islamabad. Reportedly, the aircraft experienced engine failure shortly before the crash, leading to a rapid descent and impact. The incident prompted investigations into safety protocols for domestic flights in Pakistan.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Akatsuki Successfully Enters Venusian Orbit

December 7th, 2015 9 years ago

The JAXA probe Akatsuki entered orbit around Venus after a five-year journey and a previous failed attempt. The spacecraft, launched in 2010, successfully achieved orbit following a critical maneuver. This was a significant milestone for Japan's space exploration efforts, aiming to study the atmosphere and surface of Venus. Akatsuki's mission was designed to enhance our understanding of the planet's weather patterns and volcanic activity. The successful entry was celebrated as a triumph of engineering and perseverance in space exploration.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Formation of the Conservative Party of Canada

December 7th, 2003 21 years ago

The Conservative Party of Canada was officially registered after the merger between the Canadian Alliance and the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada. This unification aimed to consolidate right-leaning political forces in Canada, offering a more robust alternative to other political parties. The process involved negotiations and discussions between leaders of both parties, emphasizing the necessity of a united front in Canadian politics. The event marked a significant realignment within the Canadian political landscape.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Galileo Spacecraft Successfully Reaches Jupiter

December 7th, 1995 29 years ago

The Galileo spacecraft, launched by Space Shuttle Atlantis during Mission STS-34, arrived at Jupiter after a journey of over six years. This ambitious mission, initiated in October 1989, was designed to study the planet and its moons, hoping to gather invaluable data to expand humanity's understanding of the largest planet in the solar system. Upon arrival, Galileo began a series of planned observations and data collection, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.

Continue Reading