Alleged threat puts parts of Sky Harbor Airport on lockdown

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Terminal Four at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport had to be locked down Friday afternoon, after a ticket agent reported an alleged threat made by a man inside the airport.

The lockdown, which caused some travel disruptions, has since been lifted. The suspect accused of committing a hoax was identified as 61-year-old, John Nichols.

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According to earlier tweets, the east end of Terminal 4, levels 1 to 3, were affected by the closure. In addition, the Level 2 ticket counters were also closed.

According to Phoenix Police, Curb lanes on Level 2 were closed to vehicles, and the inner lanes on Level 1 were also closed. All TSA Security Checkpoints, however, remained open, and passengers were moved to the west side of the terminal for a time.

According to police, a man said something to a ticketing agent that was perceived as a threat, before leaving his suitcase on the floor and walked away, which prompted the lockdown. The suspect was arrested quickly, and the bag was found to be full of clothing.

On Friday night, Phoenix Police Sergeant Alan Pfohl identified the suspect as John Nichols, 61. He has been booked for allegedly committing a hoax, which is a Class 4 Felony.