A Honduran migrant who allegedly tried to hijack a United Airlines flight this week had previously avoided deportation by claiming to be transgender, a law enforcement source exclusively told The Daily Wire.
Rony Alexander Gomez-Alberto, who was removed from the U.S. twice after illegal border crossings in 2011 and 2014, successfully re-entered in 2019 by asserting he feared persecution in Honduras due to his transgender identity. He was granted asylum in 2020.
Plane Hijacking Attempt
On Monday night, Gomez-Alberto allegedly attempted to storm the cockpit of United Flight 2174 from Newark to New Orleans while claiming to have a bomb. Flight crew convinced him to move away from the cockpit, allowing the plane to land safely in New Orleans with 46 passengers and six crew members unharmed.
According to air traffic control audio obtained by the New York Post, Gomez-Alberto changed into all-black clothing before the incident. He was arrested upon landing and charged with communicating false information of planned arson and terrorizing.
Immigration History
After his third illegal entry attempt in 2019 at the San Ysidro port of entry, Gomez-Alberto claimed fear of returning to Honduras, citing his transgender status as making him a target. He also told federal authorities he was HIV positive and a frequent marijuana user.
ICE has since lodged a detainer with Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office requesting Gomez-Alberto be transferred to federal custody if released locally. A Homeland Security spokesperson emphasized that “criminal illegal aliens are NOT welcome in the United States” under the Trump administration.
The Executive Office for Immigration Review has not yet commented on the case. United Airlines confirmed the flight landed safely following the “disruptive incident” and that law enforcement met the aircraft upon arrival.
Source: www.dailywire.com โ https://www.dailywire.com/news/exclusive-attempted-plane-hijacking-migrant-claimed-to-be-trans-to-get-fast-pass-into-us