A police officer has been stabbed at Bishop International Airport in Flint, Michigan, prompting security precautions elsewhere in the city, local officials and witnesses say. It is being investigated as a possible terrorist attack.
The incident happened at about 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday when emergency services responded to reports of a stabbing at the airport, which is the state’s third busiest. It happened on the second floor of the main terminal.
One airport police officer, identified as Lt. Jeff Neville, was confirmed to have been stabbed and was rushed to an area hospital, where he was initially reported to be in a critical condition. His condition was later described as stable. “Please keep the officer in your prayers,” Michigan State Police said.
A witness told MLive that the officer was seen bleeding from the neck.
The suspect, whose identity was not immediately known, is believed to be a Canadian citizen, but authorities have yet to comment on the possible motive. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is leading the investigation.
Law enforcement officers told local affiliate WNEM-TV that the incident was being treated as a possible terrorist attack. The suspect is believed to have shouted “Allahu Akbar” before stabbing the police officer, NBC News reported.
The FBI is expected to hold a press conference on early Wednesday afternoon.
“As we wait to learn more about the incident at Bishop Airport, please keep the attacked officer in your thoughts and prayers,” Michigan Governor Rick Snyder said in a brief statement.
As a result of the incident, Bishop International Airport has been evacuated as a precaution. “All passengers are safe and are being evacuated at this time. Please check with your airline for potential cancellations or delays,” the airport said in a brief statement.
Additionally, in an “abundance of caution,” police officers have been stationed around the Flint City hall complex until further notice. “At this time we are taking extra precautions just to be safe,” Mayor Karen Weaver said in a statement.
Michigan State Police has urged citizens to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
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