FBI: Handwritten threat that led to diverted flight was hoax

A threatening handwritten note found on a plane that forced a flight to divert to El Paso, Texas, was a hoax initiated by two young children, according to the FBI.

The Sun Country Airlines flight was headed to Mazatlán, Mexico, from Minneapolis on Wednesday with 156 passengers on board when the El Paso International Airport notified the FBI about the “security threat.”

The handwritten note, which read “You Are All Going to Die, Help Me,” was reported by passengers to the flight crew who then told law enforcement, FBI El Paso special agent in charge John Morales said.

“During interviews, it was uncovered the threat was a hoax initiated by two young children on the flight,” a statement read.

The United States Attorney’s Office declined federal criminal prosecution in the matter. The age of the children was not provided.

Sun Country Airlines said the aircraft landed without incident, and passengers were deplaned safely and provided with overnight accommodations.

“Each threat of violence is taken seriously as your safety is paramount,” Morales said.

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