Actress Selma Blair was arrested on a Delta Airlines flight from Los Angeles to New York's JFK Airport over the weekend after allegedly assaulting two flight attendants. According to authorities, Blair struck one flight attendant and bit another, leading to her being restrained during the flight. Upon landing, she was taken to Jamaica Hospital while reportedly screaming for help. Law enforcement sources indicated that she kicked a police officer and attacked a nurse during her transport to the hospital.
The pilot of the flight alerted ground authorities about the incident, describing the passenger as 'abusive' and requesting medical personnel for the injured flight attendants. The pilot noted that one of the attendants sustained a bloody nose and bite marks, while another was hospitalized due to injuries.
Blair, 54, who has been open about her battle with multiple sclerosis, was expected to face two assault charges related to the incidents involving the police officer and the nurse. Additionally, she may face a federal violation for assault committed within U.S. jurisdiction, which carries a potential sentence of up to one year in prison.
Her representative stated that Blair experienced a medical emergency that contributed to her behavior, and she received immediate medical attention upon landing. Prior to the incident, Blair had been active on Instagram, sharing posts about her travels.
This is not the first time Blair has faced issues on flights; she previously had a similar incident in 2016, where she was removed from a flight after reportedly suffering a 'total psychotic blackout.' She has acknowledged in her memoir that she has bitten several celebrities in the past. Delta Airlines reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for unruly behavior, emphasizing the safety of its customers and crew.
The Port Authority Police confirmed that they responded to the incident at approximately 11 PM at JFK Airport, identifying Blair as the suspect and noting that two flight attendants reported injuries, with one requiring further evaluation at a hospital. The FBI is currently investigating the incident.