Hostages Freed after Standoff in Jamaica

A standoff aboard an airliner in Montego Bay, Jamaica ended with an armed man giving himself up to authorities. The standoff began late Sunday when the 20 year old gunman, described as mentally-challenged, seized control of a Canadian airliner — while the jet coming from Halifax, Nova Scotia made a scheduled stop in Jamaica.


Kent Woodside, Can Jet Vice President and General Manager:


[Kent Woodside, Vice President & General Manager]:
"Obviously we are extremely concerned for the well-being of everyone involved in this incident. Our priority now is to provide comfort and support to the passengers and crew who were involved in this ordeal."


The man breached local security and held more than 180 hostages aboard the jet, demanding to be flown to Cuba, the plane's next scheduled stop. One shot was discharged during the fray, but according to police no one was injured. After negotiations began — the would-be hijacker released all passengers but still held 6 crew members captive.


As negotiations continued the man surrendered himself to police, and freed the last hostages.


Officials for Can Jet say the crew members are receiving medical attention as a precaution.


[Kent Woodside, Vice President & General Manager]:
"The security and safety of our passengers and crew are our top priority. We will continue to do what we need to do and work with the authorities who are investigating the apparent breach of security at the airport."


Following the standoff, officials say Jamaica's international Airport had reopened.