Man Facing Charges After Driving Onto Runways At Philadelphia International Airport
By Steve Beck, Mike DeNardo, Diana Rocco, Mike Dougherty and Todd Quinones
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A driver is facing DUI charges after police say he intentionally crashed through a security gate and drove onto two runways at Philadelphia International Airport Thursday morning.
Investigators say the incident began about 11 a.m. when a Jeep Cherokee driven by 24-year-old Kenneth Mazik crashed through a chain-link fence surrounding the airport along Hog Island Road. The incident was captured immediately by ground radar and controllers.
Police say Mazik drove around the airport for several minutes, including down runway 27R, before police were able to stop the car and take him into custody.
Story continues below photo ...
Mazik, of Chadds Ford, Pa., was taken to an area hospital for a psychiatric evaluation.
Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Joe Sullivan says police have no motive so far.
"We're trying to determine that right now," Sullivan told KYW Newsradio. "Whether or not he has psychological problems or substance abuse problems, that's all part of the investigation."
No explosives were in the SUV and Sullivan stresses that police believe this is an isolated incident with no link to terrorism.
Mazik (right) is facing driving under the influence and other charges. Federal charges are also possible.
Police indicate the 24-year-old from Chester County has had previous run-ins with the law. A search of Mazik's name uncovered court documents which show charges including disorderly conduct and trespassing.
The airport was shut down for approximately 30 minutes as police investigated the situation. After being reopened, incoming flights were delayed, but all flights are back on schedule, airport officials said.
