Actress Selma Blair was issued a federal summons on Monday following an alleged in-flight incident aboard a Delta Air Lines flight from Los Angeles to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport on Sunday night. The charges stem from accusations that Blair assaulted two flight attendants, a police officer, and a nurse, as well as attempting to open the plane’s door while in midair.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey confirmed that two flight attendants reported injuries, with one sustaining a laceration and the other bite marks. Blair was restrained by crew members and arrested upon landing. Law enforcement sources allege she also repeatedly kicked a Port Authority police officer in the head while being transported to the hospital and later assaulted a nurse at Jamaica Hospital, where she was taken for evaluation. Blair’s attorney stated she experienced a medical emergency that led to the alleged conduct and that she is currently in stable condition.
Federal and local authorities are investigating the incident, with the FBI handling the case due to its jurisdiction over aircraft assaults. The Port Authority Police Department and Delta Air Lines confirmed the arrest, with Delta reiterating its zero-tolerance policy for unruly behavior. Blair, known for her roles in Legally Blonde and Hellboy, has publicly discussed her 2018 diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and advocacy for disability rights in recent years.
Key Developments in the Case
The federal summons issued to Blair marks the latest development in the investigation, which began after the incident on Delta Flight 938 around 11 p.m. local time on Sunday. According to air traffic control audio, the pilot requested medical personnel at the gate to address injuries sustained by crew members, including a bloody nose and bite marks. The pilot also noted that Blair had bashed her head against a bulkhead during the altercation.
Law enforcement sources told TMZ that Blair was secured in restraints on the plane before her arrest. The Washington Examiner and Daily Mail reported that she was charged with two counts of assault, though the exact charges and their legal status remain under review by federal prosecutors. The FBI declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, citing Department of Justice policy.
Blair’s representative stated that she received immediate medical attention upon landing and is now under evaluation. The Port Authority confirmed that one flight attendant was taken to the hospital, while the other reported minor injuries. The New York Police Department and FBI are coordinating the investigation, with no further details released at this time.
Timeline of the Incident
- Sunday, 11 p.m. local time: Delta Flight 938, en route from Los Angeles to JFK, lands at JFK after an altercation reported midflight.
- Upon landing: Blair is arrested by Port Authority Police and transported to Jamaica Hospital for evaluation.
- During transport: Blair allegedly kicked a police officer in the head.
- At the hospital: Blair allegedly assaulted a nurse, who has since pressed charges.
- Monday: Federal authorities issue a summons charging Blair with assault within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States.
Reactions and Statements
Delta Air Lines issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to crew and passenger safety, stating, “Delta has zero tolerance for unruly or unlawful behavior.” The airline did not provide further details on the incident.
Blair’s attorney stated in a release: “Selma experienced a medical emergency that led to the alleged conduct. Upon landing, she received immediate medical attention and is currently in stable condition.”
The Port Authority Police Department confirmed the arrest and injuries to crew members but did not provide additional commentary. The FBI’s New York office stated it does not comment on ongoing investigations.
Background on Selma Blair
Selma Blair, 54, is an actress known for her roles in Legally Blonde, Cruel Intentions, and Hellboy. In recent years, she has been an advocate for disability rights, publicly sharing her multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2018. She participated in Dancing with the Stars in 2022 and has continued to work in film and television despite her diagnosis.