Photo: Getty Images
Officials apprehended a Chicago woman who claimed there was a bomb on a plane in a Florida airport.
Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the bomb threat in Terminal 3 at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport around 8:45 p.m. on Monday night (September 6). Marina Verbitsky, 46, allegedly claimed to have a bomb in her checked luggage on the plane, according to a press release from the Fort Lauderdale-based sheriff’s office.
She apparently made the claim in an attempt to board the flight after showing up to the gate too late:
“Preliminary investigation revealed Verbitsky made the statement after being advised that she and her party could not board the plane due to their late arrival at the gate. Verbitsky was immediately taken into custody.”
The Broward Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad and Threat Management Unit investigated and contacted the FBI. Authorities say the plane rerouted and officials evacuated passengers. The plane was already traveling down the runway during the investigation. Verbitsky is charged with one count of false reporting concerning planting a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction. She’s being held at the BSO Main Jail, according to the press release.
“A thorough inspection was conducted and the threat was determined to be unfounded,” the Broward Sheriff’s Office states. “The investigation continues.”