Tragic Stabbing in Denver Claims Life of American Airlines Flight Attendant

American Airlines has confirmed that Celinda Levno, a 71-year-old flight attendant with over three decades of service, was one of the victims of a deadly stabbing spree in Denver, Colorado, over the weekend. Levno, who began her career in 1989 with America West Airlines—later merged with US Airways and subsequently American Airlines in 2013—had recently celebrated her 35th anniversary as a flight attendant.

Levno was in Denver on a layover when the tragic incident unfolded. According to local reports, she was the second of three people attacked within an hour in Downtown Denver’s 16th Street Mall area on the evening of Saturday, January 11th. The attack also left another pedestrian dead and two others injured.

In response to the incident, American Airlines issued a heartfelt statement:

“We are heartbroken and mourning the tragic loss of our colleague who was the victim of a senseless crime last night. Our thoughts and support are with her family, loved ones, and colleagues, and we are doing all we can to assist law enforcement in its investigation.”

Though the attack did not occur at the layover hotel, the airline has temporarily relocated its crew to accommodations near Denver International Airport (DEN) as a precautionary measure.

Details of the Incident

The Denver Police Department revealed that the stabbing spree began at approximately 5:12 PM on January 11th when the first victim, a man, was attacked. He managed to transport himself to the hospital and was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Levno was attacked five minutes later, becoming the second victim. Around 6:00 PM, a third victim, another adult male, was stabbed and transported to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

On Sunday, January 12th, officers patrolling the area of 16th and Wynkoop Streets identified a man matching the suspect’s description. The individual was seen running with a knife and was subsequently apprehended after a brief chase. Shortly after the arrest, a fourth victim was located and rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have confirmed that the suspect is being investigated for charges of First Degree Murder of an at-risk elder, First Degree Murder, and two counts of Attempted First Degree Murder. The Denver District Attorney’s Office will determine the final charges.

At this time, the motive for the attack remains unclear. Investigators have found no apparent connection between the suspect and the victims. In a tribute to Levno, The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) described her death as a “senseless tragedy,” highlighting her passion for horses and her close relationships with friends and family:

“With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Phoenix-based Flight Attendant Celinda Levno while on layover in Denver. Celinda began her career with America West in 1989.

Celinda’s love for her horses, friends, and family will always be remembered. We stand in support with Celinda’s family, friends, and our colleagues in Phoenix Inflight as they process this senseless tragedy.”

The APFA has also extended its Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services to help affected colleagues cope with the loss.

• Featured image by BriYYZ

Youssef Yahya

Youssef Yahya is the CEO and Founder of Aviation for Aviators, a platform dedicated to the aviation industry. With over 3 years of experience as an aviation writer, Youssef is passionate about sharing his insights on aviation, entrepreneurship, and the broader business landscape. As a Teaching Assistant in Entrepreneurship at Nile University, he also nurtures the next generation of entrepreneurs. When he’s not exploring the skies or business ventures, you can find him saying, ‘Drag your coffee, and let’s talk aviation, entrepreneurship, and football.’

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