In Michigan, USA, 23-year-old John Charles Robinson was arrested by the FBI after making a false bomb threat targeting a Spirit Airlines passenger flight. The hoax, made just minutes before departure, led to the cancellation of the flight, caused panic among passengers, and prompted heightened security measures at the airport.
Turned to Threats After Missing His Flight
The incident occurred on the morning of June 5, 2025. After missing Spirit Airlines flight 2145 from Detroit (DTW) to Los Angeles (LAX), Robinson called the airline and claimed a bomb had been placed on the plane. He warned, “The bomb will not be detected by TSA,” and insisted that no one should be allowed to board the aircraft.
Flight Cancelled, Passengers Evacuated
In response to the bomb threat, Spirit Airlines cancelled the flight. All passengers and crew members were evacuated, and the aircraft was thoroughly searched by FBI agents and bomb-sniffing dogs. No explosives were found during the investigation.
FBI Traces Threat to Missed Passenger
Federal agents quickly traced the call to Robinson, who was found to have a reservation on the same flight but had missed boarding due to arriving late. Authorities determined that he made the false threat after failing to catch the flight.
Returned to Airport, Then Arrested
Later that day, Robinson returned to the airport in an attempt to travel to Los Angeles. He was arrested by the FBI’s Detroit Joint Terrorism Task Force in coordination with Wayne County Airport Police and the Federal Air Marshal Service.
Strong Response from Officials: “Such Words Undermine Our Safety”
U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. condemned the act, stating, “No American wants to hear the words ‘bomb’ and ‘airplane’ in the same sentence. Such behaviour shakes our collective sense of security.”
FBI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson added, “These types of threats are taken seriously. Anyone who endangers public safety will be swiftly investigated and brought to justice.”
Released on Bail After Court Appearance
Robinson appeared in court in Detroit and was released on bail. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for June 27, 2025. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hank Moon and Douglas Salzenstein.
