Veteran American Airlines flight attendant killed in random attack during layover in Denver
Authorities have confirmed that a suspect in the veteran’s murder is in custody American Airlines stewardess who was one of the victims killed in a random knife attack during a traffic stop in Denver.
According to Denver Police, Elijah Caudill, 24, was arrested late Sunday night in connection with four stabbings that occurred over the weekend.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, American Airlines confirmed that Phoenix flight attendant Celinda Levno, 71, was one of the victims.
“We are heartbroken and mourn the tragic loss of our colleague who was the victim of a senseless crime. Our thoughts and support are with her family, loved ones and colleagues, and we are doing everything we can to assist the police in their investigation,” said an Air Force One spokesman. company in the statement.
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A flight attendant from Phoenix was the victim of a fatal stabbing over the weekend in Denver while on a layover, officials confirmed. (iStock/Association of Professional Flight Attendants)
The Professional Flight Attendants Association, the union representing American Airlines flight attendants, also confirmed Levno’s death in a statement sent to Fox News Digital.
“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of Phoenix flight attendant Celinda Levno while on vacation in Denver. Celinda began her career with America West in 1989,” said a spokesperson for the association.
“Celinda’s love for her horses, friends and family will always be remembered. We support Celinda’s family, friends and our colleagues at Phoenix Inflight as they process this senseless tragedy.”
71-year-old Celinda Levno, a longtime American Airlines flight attendant, was stabbed to death during a layover in Denver. (Association of professional flight attendants)
Levno began her career in 1989 with American West, which merged with US Airways, and then with American Airlines in 2013, according to the association.
The association added that they continue to plant on vacation in Denver will be moved to a hotel near Denver International Airport, although the stabbing did not take place at a stopover hotel.
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Denver authorities have arrested Elijah Caudill, 24, in connection with a string of four stabbings that resulted in two deaths over the weekend. (Denver Police)
Police said the incident happened around 5:17 p.m. Saturday when officers responded to reports of a stabbing. When officers arrived, they found Levno with stab wounds to the neck, along with two other victims who had sustained injuries.
Levno was transported to a local hospital and he was later pronounced dead. Police said another male victim was stabbed late Sunday night and succumbed to his injuries. His identity has yet to be released.
Investigators do not believe Caudill and the victims were related to each other, and the motive of the attack is unknown.
Caudill is being held without bail and faces charges of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.
Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the stabbing is encouraged to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7967.
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A GoFundMe page has also been set up by Levna’s family and friends to help with funeral expenses.
“Celinda Anne Levno was an amazing woman. She was 71 years old and still working hard as a flight attendant,” a post on the site said.
“She spent her free time with her loving husband, John, and sister, Melanie. She bred many horses throughout her life and was very involved in the Arabian horse industry,” the post continued.
“She was also an amazing musician and often played her flute in concerts. Celinda was the most loyal and kind person. She did so much for others. Such an amazing and kind woman who was taken far too soon.”
Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Tips and story ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com
