An American Airlines flight attendant aged 71 was tragically killed during a series of random stabbings in downtown Denver, Colorado on January 11, 2025. The Phoenix, Arizona-based attendant was one of two fatalities in the attacks, which also left two others wounded.
The victim, Celinda Levno, started her flight attendant career in 1989 with America West Airlines. This airline later merged with US Airways and then with American Airlines in 2005. Levno was attacked near the intersection of 16th and California streets in Denver at about 5:17 p.m. on Saturday. Despite multiple hours of surgical efforts at a local hospital, she succumbed to her injuries early Sunday morning.
Denver police apprehended 24-year-old Elijah D. Caudill on suspicion of conducting four separate stabbings between Saturday and Sunday evenings. The first attack, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries, occurred between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday. Levno was the second victim, followed by another survivor, while the fourth victim, attacked near 16th Street and Market just before midnight on Sunday, also died.
Three of the attacks, according to investigators, took place within 42 minutes on Saturday evening in the bustling 16th Street Mall area, a pedestrian precinct in downtown Denver. Police affirmed that all attacks seemed to be random and without provocation.
The suspect, Caudill, has a criminal record including attempted robbery, assault, and unfulfilled court appearances. He was arrested late on Sunday. Investigators have not found any connection between Caudill and the victims, and the motive for the attacks remains uncertain. Caudill’s grandparents revealed that he has struggled with mental health issues and drug addiction for years.
Josephine Dale, a grief-stricken friend of Levno, commemorated her in a statement to The Arizona Republic, stating, “She will now be with us every stride, and her love for horses will be carried on through all of us.” Dale also shared images of Levno, one of which showed her astride a white horse, bearing an American flag.
Friends remembered Levno as a talented flute player and a compassionate woman. “She was an incredible and kind woman,” Dale added. Yvonne Shields, another friend, posted online: “RIP my sweet friend.”
A representative from American Airlines condemned the attack on Levno as a senseless act of violence. The company pledged its full support to her family, friends, and colleagues, and confirmed Levno’s over three decades of service as a flight attendant.
In response to the attack, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants announced that crews laying over in downtown Denver will be temporarily relocated to a hotel near Denver International Airport. The union has also activated its Employee Assistance Program to offer support services for flight attendants mourning the loss of their colleague.
The Denver Police Department has increased its downtown presence and urged the public to stay alert. Officers are reviewing surveillance footage from businesses along the 16th Street Mall and requesting anyone with further information to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers. More details about the suspect and the ongoing investigation are expected to be released soon.
