A 71-year-old flight attendant from Phoenix, Arizona, working for American Airlines, was fatally stabbed during a layover in downtown Denver, Colorado on January 11, 2025. The incident was part of a series of random attacks over the weekend, leaving two dead and two injured in downtown Denver.
The deceased, Celinda Levno, initiated her flight attendant career in 1989 with America West Airlines. The airline later merged with US Airways, and subsequently with American Airlines in 2005. Levno was stabbed in the throat around 5:17 p.m. on Saturday near 16th and California streets in Denver. She was transported to a nearby hospital, underwent several hours of surgery, but succumbed to her injuries early Sunday morning.
Denver police apprehended 24-year-old Elijah D. Caudill in relation to four separate stabbings that took place between Saturday and Sunday evening. The first attack occurred between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday, leaving the victim with non-life-threatening injuries. Levno was the second victim. Another survivor followed her, and the fourth victim was stabbed just before midnight on Sunday near 16th Street and Market and also died from his injuries.
Three of the stabbings reportedly took place within a 42-minute window on Saturday evening in the bustling 16th Street Mall area, a pedestrian hotspot in downtown Denver. Police confirmed that all the attacks seemed to be random and unprovoked.
The suspect, Caudill, who has a record of attempted robbery, assault, and failure-to-appear warrants, was captured late on Sunday. Detectives have yet to find any links between him and the victims, leaving the motive for the attacks unknown. Caudill’s grandparents reported that he has struggled with mental health and drug issues for several years.
In a poignant tribute, Levno’s friend Josephine Dale told The Arizona Republic, “She will now be with us every stride, and her love for horses will be carried on through all of us.” Dale shared images of Levno, one featuring her on a white horse holding an American flag.
Levno, an ardent flute player, was remembered as an “incredible and kind woman” by her friends. Dale described her as a devoted flight attendant and a passionate animal lover. Levno’s friend Yvonne Shields posted online, “RIP my sweet friend.”
An American Airlines spokesperson characterized the attack on Levno as a senseless act. The airline expressed its support for Levno’s family, friends, and colleagues, and committed to fully cooperating with law enforcement investigations. Levno’s service of over 30 years as a flight attendant was confirmed by American Airlines.
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants responded immediately to the incident. The union announced that crews laying over in downtown Denver would be temporarily moved to a hotel near Denver International Airport. The union has also activated its Employee Assistance Program to provide support to flight attendants dealing with the loss of their colleague.
The Denver Police Department has increased its downtown presence in response to the attacks and urged the public to stay alert. Authorities are currently reviewing surveillance footage from businesses along the 16th Street Mall and have appealed to anyone with further information to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers. More details about the suspect and the ongoing investigation are expected to be released shortly.
