A Southwest Airlines flight attendant was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while working, according to the union representing the airline’s flight attendants.
ICE confirmed that Lorenzo Thompson was taken into custody at Nashville International Airport on July 14. An agency spokesperson said Thompson cooperated during the arrest and will remain in ICE custody while his immigration case moves through the legal process.
According to ICE, Thompson entered the United States from Jamaica in 2021 with authorization to remain in the country for six months. Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances that led to his detention.
The Transport Workers Union Local 556, which represents Southwest flight attendants, said its top priority is supporting its member and his family. The union added that every member deserves to be treated with dignity and respect during difficult situations.
Union officials said they are working closely with Thompson’s family, his attorney, and the union’s legal team to better understand the case and provide any necessary assistance. They noted that many details surrounding the detention remain unclear.
Southwest Airlines has not publicly commented on the incident. ICE also stated that it cannot search detention records based on a person’s employer, limiting what information can currently be released.
The case has drawn attention as questions remain about the circumstances of Thompson’s detention while on duty. His immigration proceedings are expected to continue in the coming weeks.
