Hijacker Shot by Passenger During Mid-Flight Scare Over Belize; Plane Lands Safely

BELIZE CITY, Belize — A terrifying mid-air ordeal ended safely this morning after a hijacker was shot by a fellow passenger aboard a small domestic aircraft en route from Corozal to San Pedro.

The plane, which carried 14 passengers, was seen flying erratically along the Belizean coastline before it touched down at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, where emergency responders and law enforcement had assembled.

Commissioner of Police Chester Williams confirmed the hijacker, identified as Akinyela Sawa Taylor, a United States citizen, was shot during a struggle with a passenger. That passenger, who attempted to subdue the attacker, sustained visible injuries, as seen in video footage from inside the plane.

Two people were injured during the incident. All passengers were evacuated safely and received medical attention.

The motive behind the hijacking is still under investigation. Authorities have not indicated whether Taylor acted alone or what may have led to the attempt.

Despite the scare, international flights at PGIA remain open, and police have launched a full investigation into the hijacking.

Officials praised the courageous actions of those onboard and promised a review of aviation security measures in response to the incident. Further updates are expected.