St. Pete–Clearwater Int’l Airport (33762) – Tampa–Roanoke Panic: Passenger Claims “Laptop Is a Bomb” – LIVE UPDATES

St. Pete–Clearwater Int’l Airport (33762) – A routine Allegiant Air flight from Clearwater, FL, to Roanoke, VA, transformed into a mid‑air emergency on Sunday, July 6, when 27‑year‑old Taj Taylor allegedly told a seatmate, “My laptop is a bomb.” The alarming claim triggered panic aboard Flight 1023 shortly after takeoff. Crewmembers swiftly initiated emergency protocols, and the pilot diverted the Boeing 737 back to St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport, where authorities—including the FBI and bomb-sniffing units—were already waiting. Thankfully, no explosive device was found. Taylor was taken into custody and later released pending federal charges for making a false bomb threat. His actions delayed 177 passengers and six crew members before the flight resumed and reached its destination hours later.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Emergency landing at St. Pete–Clearwater after laptop-bomb claim.

• IMPACT: 177 passengers and 6 crew delayed; no injuries.

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “The passenger immediately notified the flight attendants.” – Pinellas County Sheriff.

• ACTION: Stay calm and notify crew immediately if you hear threats mid‑flight.

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   St. Pete–Clearwater Int’l Airport (33762) – diverted shortly after takeoff.

2. Community Connection:

   “It was terrifying—smoke and fear everywhere.”
   – Janet Morales, Sarasota commuter

The flight, carrying mostly leisure travelers and veterans returning to Virginia, was about 40 minutes into its journey when Taylor allegedly declared his laptop a bomb to both a seatmate and several nearby passengers. Flight attendants immediately alerted the cockpit crew, who executed an emergency diversion back to the departure airport. Ground emergency teams, including K‑9 units, evacuated passengers and conducted a thorough search—finding no explosives in Taylor’s baggage or seating area.

Authorities later confirmed Taylor had recently been released from a mental health facility and admitted to skipping medication, calling his clarity into question. He didn’t admit guilt but acknowledged telling the story about the laptop. The FBI has opened a formal investigation, and Taylor faces federal felony charges that include up to five years in prison and a $25,000 fine for making false threats. In light of the incident, Allegiant compensated each passenger with a $100 travel voucher and departed for Roanoke several hours behind schedule.

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW: Airline safety protocols are under renewed scrutiny—this incident follows a spate of bomb scares and lithium‑battery fires, prompting passengers to remain vigilant and airline staff to prepare for mental health–related emergencies.

Crisis Response

• IMMEDIATE RESOURCES:
  » FBI Tampa Field Office: (813) 253‑7600
  » National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

• OFFICIAL GUIDANCE:

  “Reporting threats, even potential, ensures everyone’s safety.”
  – Sgt. John Carter, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office

Update Log

• July 9, 2025, 5:12 PM: FBI confirms federal investigation underway.

• July 8, 2025, 11:00 AM: Taylor released under US Marshals supervision; hearing pending.

• July 6, 2025, 2:08 PM: Flight lands safely; search clears aircraft.