COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Regional Airport Authority today announced charges were filed against 40-year-old William Griffith following an incident at the new terminal construction site at John Glenn Columbus International Airport this morning.
Around 4:15 a.m. Airport Police officers responded to reports of a suspicious person near the administrative area of the new terminal construction site by construction personnel. Upon responding, officers rapidly found the individual and took him into custody. He is not an employee or associated with the construction project.
Upon further investigation, multiple weapons and rounds of ammunition were found in two locations, including his nearby car.
Officers searched the entire construction site, and no additional weapons were found. The airport remained open and operational during this period.
Airport police notified our federal partners at the FBI and TSA, and they are assisting in the ongoing investigation.
“Thanks to the swift action of our construction partners and their ‘see something, say something’ mentality, we were able to quickly address the situation,” said Airport Police Chief Ronald Gray, director of Public Safety for the Columbus Regional Airport Authority. “This incident highlights the efficacy of our safety policies and procedures, prioritizing the safety and security of our airport community.”
The following charges were filed in Franklin County Municipal Court:
1 count unlawful possession of a dangerous ordinance (felony)
4 counts possession weapons under disability (felony)
1 count breaking and entering (felony)
1 count criminal trespass (misdemeanor)
Additional charges are under investigation.