4 Stabbed, 2 Killed: Denver Attack Claims Flight Attendant's Life
A devastating tragedy has shaken the American Airlines® community after a longtime flight attendant, Celinda Levno, was fatally stabbed during a layover in Denver, Colorado. Levno, 63, was one of four victims targeted in a stabbing spree over the weekend of Jan. 11, which left two people dead and two others injured. Denver police have arrested 24-year-old Elijah Caudill, who now faces multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder.
A Shocking Crime
The stabbing spree began on Jan. 11, when three people were attacked within an hour on 16th Street in downtown Denver. According to Denver police, the second victim, an adult woman, was killed, while the other two victims survived their injuries. On Sunday, a fourth stabbing occurred around 8 p.m., resulting in the death of a 62-year-old man.
Shortly before the final victim was found, officers searching the area spotted a man running with a knife. "Police claim he fit the suspect's description and chased the man before taking him into custody," PEOPLE reported. Officials said there appears to be no connection between Caudill and the victims, and the motive remains under investigation.
Remembering Celinda Levno
Levno, who began her career with America West in 1989, was remembered by the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) as someone who had a deep love for her "horses, friends, and family," as reported by PEOPLE. In a statement, the union shared its sorrow, saying, "With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Phoenix-based flight attendant Celinda Levno while on layover in Denver."
American Airlines expressed its heartbreak in an email to PEOPLE saying, "[We are] heartbroken and mourning 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 all we can to assist law enforcement in its investigation."
As a precaution, flight attendants staying in downtown Denver for layovers have been temporarily relocated to hotels closer to the airport, according to the APFA.
A Solemn Homecoming
Levno's body was flown back to Phoenix on her final flight, where she was honored by friends, family, and colleagues during a heartfelt ceremony on the tarmac at Sky Harbor Airport. Her sister Melanie, also an American Airlines flight attendant, attended the somber event along with many who worked with and loved Levno.
Legal Action Against the Suspect
The suspect, Elijah Caudill, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted first-degree murder, Denver police said in a statement. It remains unclear whether Caudill has entered a plea or retained legal representation.
Denver authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attacks. Reports suggest the victims had no connection to Caudill, making the spree even more baffling.
A Legacy of Dedication
Levno dedicated more than three decades to her career in the skies, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and a love for her community. The APFA urged its members to lean on one another during this difficult time, saying, "We stand in support with Celinda's family, friends, and our colleagues in Phoenix Inflight as they process this senseless tragedy," according to PEOPLE.
Celinda Levno's tragic death has left her family, friends, and colleagues mourning the loss of a dedicated flight attendant and beloved friend. As authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the senseless attack, her memory lives on through the love she shared with her family and her unwavering commitment to her career.
References: Phoenix flight attendant honored after random stabbing in Denver layover | Remembering Phoenix Flight Attendant Celinda Levno | Flight Attendant Fatally Stabbed While on Layover in Denver, Suspect Arrested
