Authorities confirmed that a suspect is in custody for the murder of a veteran American Airlines flight attendant, who was one of several people killed in a random stabbing spree during a layover in Denver.
According to the Denver Police Department, Elijah Caudill, 24, was arrested late Sunday evening in connection with four stabbings that took place over the weekend.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, American Airlines confirmed that Celinda Levno, 71, a flight attendant from Phoenix, was among the victims.
“We are heartbroken and saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague, who was the victim of a senseless crime. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones, and colleagues, and we are doing everything we can to help law enforcement with their investigation,” a spokesperson for the airlines said in a statement.
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants, a union that represents American Airlines flight attendants, confirmed Levno’s death in a statement to Fox News Digital.
“We regret to inform you that Celinda Levno, a flight attendant from Phoenix, died during a layover in Denver. Celinda began her career with America West in 1989, according to the association’s spokesperson.
“Celinda’s love for her horses, friends, and family will never be forgotten. We support Celinda’s family, friends, and Phoenix Inflight colleagues as they deal with this senseless tragedy.”
Levno began her career with American West in 1989, which later merged with US Airways and American Airlines in 2013, according to the association.
The association also stated that crews who are still on a layover in Denver will be relocated to a hotel near the Denver International Airport, despite the fact that the stabbing did not take place there.
Police said the incident occurred at 5:17 p.m. on Saturday, when officers responded to reports of a stabbing. Officers arrived to find Levno with stab wounds to the neck, as well as two other injured victims.
#Denver, do you recognize this homicide suspect? Please contact @CrimeStoppersCO at 720-913-STOP (7867) with any information about the suspect or incidents. pic.twitter.com/EGro0ops9c
— Denver Police Dept. (@DenverPolice) January 12, 2025
Levno was taken to a local hospital and later pronounced dead. Police said another male victim was stabbed late Sunday night and died as a result of his injuries. His identity has yet to be revealed.
Investigators do not believe Caudill and the victims had any connection, and the motive for the attacks is unclear.
Caudill is being held without bail on first-degree murder and first-degree attempted murder charges.
Anyone with information or surveillance footage from the stabbings is encouraged to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7967.
Levno’s family and friends have also started a GoFundMe page 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 page stated.
“She spent her free time with her beloved husband, John, and sister, Melanie. “She raised many horses throughout her life and was very involved in the Arabian horse industry,” the post continued.
“She was also an incredible musician, frequently performing with her flute in concert. Celinda was the most generous and caring person I knew. She accomplished so much for others. “What an amazing and kind woman who was taken far too soon.”
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