Shocking new details have emerged about Rustom Bhagwagar, a 34-year-old Delta Airlines co-pilot, who was arrested immediately after landing Flight 2809 from Minneapolis to San Francisco on July 26. Federal agents stormed the plane upon arrival, with witnesses claiming up to ten officers were present during the dramatic arrest.
Authorities confirmed Bhagwagar was arrested on suspicion of sexual crimes against a child. He is being held at the Martinez Detention Facility on five counts of oral copulation with a child under 10, with bail set at $5 million. Homeland Security’s Tricia McLaughlin stated, “Anyone who commits depraved crimes against a child will face consequences. Thanks to this partnership, this alleged predator is behind bars.”
Passengers described the moment as “scary and traumatic.” One passenger told ABC7, “Agents stormed the cockpit, cuffed him, and walked him down the aisle. I cried as soon as I left the airport.”
Delta Airlines issued a statement, saying the co-pilot has been suspended and that they have “zero tolerance for unlawful conduct.” The investigation remains ongoing.
