Newly obtained video shows the chaotic removal of a passenger from a Delta Air Lines jet at New York's JFK Airport, where 60-year-old Jerome Anixter was heard shouting 'I love myself' and 'I'm f***ing strong' as two Port Authority police officers struggled to escort him down the aisle, according to footage obtained by TMZ.
The confrontation, which occurred on October 22 while the aircraft was parked at the gate preparing for a flight to Atlanta International Airport, followed reports of a disruptive and apparently intoxicated passenger, according to TMZ. The video captures Anixter resisting the officers as they attempt to move him past stunned travelers.
At one point, an officer can be heard telling Anixter that he is not helping his situation, prompting the repeated cry of 'I love myself!' When the officers finally maneuvered him through the exit door, the remaining passengers broke into applause, the video shows.
Port Authority police took Anixter into custody on allegations of assault, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental administration, TMZ reported. The charges stem from the October 22 episode, which began after Delta alerted authorities to a passenger who appeared intoxicated while the plane was still at the gate.
Earlier reporting by TMZ included separate footage from a fellow passenger showing Anixter using a racial slur while being removed. According to that account, he had also shouted 'death to America' and mimicked shooting other travelers before law enforcement intervened.
A Delta spokesperson previously told TMZ, 'Delta has zero tolerance for disruptive behavior, and we thank law enforcement for their assistance in removing this unruly customer.' The airline also expressed regret to the other travelers aboard for what they experienced and for any disruption to their journeys.
The aircraft was carrying 160 passengers and 6 crew members at the time of the incident, according to TMZ. The flight ultimately left JFK roughly 45 minutes behind schedule.