Man accused of attempted plane theft at Page Field airport

Reporter: Tiffany Rizzo Writer: Nicholas Karsen
Published: Updated:
plane hijacking
Bruce Plummer’s mugshot. Credit: Lee County Sheriffs Office

A man arrested and charged with attempting to steal an airplane at the Page Field Airport in Fort Myers made his first court appearance.

Bruce Plummer, 43, is accused of trying to steal an airplane Monday while armed with rifles, wearing a tactical vest, and having a pilot handbook on his person.

Lee County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Plummer late Monday night.

Plummer was taken into the Lee County Jail, and he appeared in court at around 10 a.m.

During his hearing, the judge stated there are certain offenses where the state is required to make a pre-trial detention motion when the person could be a possible danger. The judge said the state is looking at two charges.

Plummer will be brought back into court on Wednesday for a potential motion filed by the state.

Plummer’s parents said that he suffers from substance abuse and mental health issues, and they hope he gets the help that he needs.

“Our son is definitely not a violent person,” said Janet Plummer. “He wanted to harm himself, but never anybody else. He’s never made threats against other people. He’s well-liked by everyone he’s worked for or worked with. He’s just a caring person, but under the influence of alcohol, unfortunately, he made a very wrong decision to do what he did.”

The airplane that the suspect is accused of stealing struck a light pole on the runway while trying to take off.

Plummer is charged with burglary of a dwelling, structure, or conveyance while armed, possessing a bullet-proof vest, and grand theft of property valued at $100,000 or more.

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