Selma Blair, a well-known actress, was taken into custody following accusations of causing harm to two flight attendants during a flight from Los Angeles to New York. Additionally, she faced charges of assaulting a police officer and a nurse. The incident occurred late Sunday night when the Delta Air Lines aircraft was stationed at New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport.
Blair, aged 54, was arrested around 11 p.m. ET on Sunday. Both Blair and one of the flight attendants were transported to a hospital for assessment, as reported by the port authority. Charging documents revealed that during transport to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Blair allegedly kicked the police officer securing her to a stretcher, causing significant pain and swelling. Subsequently, she reportedly kicked a nurse in the chest, leading to substantial discomfort.
The actress was arraigned on two counts of second-degree assault in a Queens court late Monday. During the court appearance, she appeared emotional, standing in handcuffs clad in jeans and a white hooded sweatshirt. Her attorney, Shawn Barnes, stated that her actions were unintentional, attributing the incident to missed doses of medication for managing severe neurological symptoms related to her multiple sclerosis. Barnes explained that Blair had boarded the flight fatigued after a demanding schedule and had suffered a head injury during the journey, compounded by the effects of altitude, resulting in a state of confusion.
The judge set Blair’s bail at $20,000 cash or $60,000 bond US, scheduling the next hearing for January. Following the court proceedings, Blair left with her legal representatives. Details of the onboard events were not immediately disclosed by Delta, law enforcement, or the FBI, which was conducting an investigation. However, Delta emphasized its commitment to prioritizing the safety of passengers and crew, condemning unruly behavior.
In communication with air traffic control, the Delta pilot requested medical assistance upon arrival to address bite marks and a bloody nose on the disruptive passenger, indicating a need for medical evaluation and police involvement. This incident was not the first involving Blair’s behavior on a plane, citing a previous episode in 2016 where she attributed regrettable statements to a mix of alcohol and medication that caused her to lose consciousness. Despite past incidents, Blair, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2018, has been an advocate for disability rights and was recognized for her activism alongside then-President Joe Biden in 2023 at the White House.