According to the Charleston County Aviation Authority, the incident began when a vehicle approached the security gate of the Boeing facility. A security guard attempted to stop the vehicle to check the driver’s badge, but the driver, later identified as Fitzgerald, did not stop and forced his way in.
Instead of continuing in the car, Fitzgerald allegedly jumped over the security fence and entered the facility’s premises on foot. It was here that he violently attacked multiple employees in separate incidents.
Victims Share Their Ordeals
One of the victims, a woman who was walking through the parking lot at the time, told officers that Fitzgerald jumped the fence, pushed her to the ground, and began punching her repeatedly on the left side of her face. She was later taken to a medical facility on the campus for treatment.
In another case, a second woman, who was conducting inspections at the facility, reported that Fitzgerald also pushed her to the ground, which caused a back injury. She too was treated at an on-site medical facility.
The third individual involved was a man who tried to intervene during the attacks. He told authorities that he saw Fitzgerald physically attacking the two women. When he attempted to stop the assaults, Fitzgerald turned on him and began attacking him as well. However, the man managed to restrain Fitzgerald until the security team arrived and took control of the situation.
Arrest and Current Status
After the incident, Fitzgerald was arrested and taken to the Al Cannon Detention Center. According to officials, none of the victims knew Fitzgerald personally. His motive remains unclear as the investigation continues.
Fitzgerald now faces three assault-and-battery charges, and the case is expected to move forward through the legal system in the coming weeks. Authorities are working to understand how such a security breach occurred and what can be done to prevent such events in the future.
This shocking incident at Boeing’s Charleston facility shows how important workplace safety and strict security protocols are in today’s environment. While no lives were lost, the physical and emotional impact on the victims is significant. The case also highlights the bravery of those who intervened and the quick response by security personnel. It’s a reminder for all large organizations to review their security systems and ensure such breaches are prevented moving forward.
