Children created threat hoax on flight diverted to El Paso, FBI says

Update (March 6, 2025): FBI El Paso released the following statement regarding the diversion:

“The investigation into the diverted Sun Country flight from Minneapolis to El Paso, determined a threatening handwritten note was found on the airplane alleging 'You Are All Going to Die, Help Me.' This handwritten note prompted passengers to report the note to the flight crew. The flight crew immediately reported the threat to law enforcement and diverted the flight for the safety of the passengers and the flight crew. During interviews, it was uncovered the threat was a hoax initiated by two young children on the flight. The United States Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Texas declined federal criminal prosecution in the matter. FBI El Paso would again like to thank our law enforcement partners, Sun Country Airline, and especially all 156 passengers for your patience during the investigation. Each threat of violence is taken seriously as your safety is paramount."

John Morales, FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge

UPDATE: FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge said their investigation determined there was no credible threat to those aboard Sun Country Airlines flight 593.

Thank you to our partners with Sun Country Airlines, El Paso Police Department, Sun Metro, and El Paso International Airport for assisting us with the diversion and helping make the passengers feel safe at the airport. FBI El Paso wants to thank the 156 passengers for your patience as our team conducted interviews to determine the circumstances behind the reported security concern," said Morales.

UPDATE: Sun Country Airlines issued a statement on flight 593 diverted to El Paso:

"Sun Country Airlines flight 593, operating from Minneapolis/St. Paul to Mazatlan, diverted to El Paso out of an abundance of caution in response to a security concern. The aircraft landed without incident,  passengers have been deplaned safely and will be provided overnight accommodations. We are working with law enforcement to fully investigate the situation and assess the validity of the concern".

The airline also said they 'apologize to the passengers and those affected' and that the decision was made because 'safety and security are our highest priorities', according to the statement issued by Sun Country Communications.

The airline is working on getting those on board the plane to their original destination safely and as quickly as possible.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) - A plane headed to Mazatlán, Mexico from Minneapolis, Minnesota was diverted to the El Paso International Airport after a reported threat, according to the FBI.

Sun Country Airlines SY 593 departed from Minneapolis at 2:21 p.m. Central Time and landed in El Paso at 4:25 p.m. Mountain Time.

"At approximately 4:15pm MST, FBI El Paso was notified by our partners at El Paso International Airport and the FBI's National Threat Operations Center of a diverted plane heading to El Paso, Texas from Minneapolis. FBI El Paso personnel have responded to the scene to assist our partners and ensure the safety of the passengers and flight crew aboard the plane. As this is an ongoing situation, no further information can be given at this time."

This is a developing story and we will have more information as it becomes available.