Runaway Jeep on runway leads to federal charges

After entering the tarmac, the affidavit said Mazik then turned on to runway 9R, which was the same runway which the incoming aircraft was approaching. The affidavit said Mazik then drove down the runway at speeds in excess of 100 mph, with the aircraft approaching from his rear.

An air traffic controller quickly diverted the aircraft and placed it in a holding pattern.

The affidavit further alleged that Mazik continued to drive his Cherokee even after Philadelphia police officers began pursuing him. He finally stopped on a taxiway adjacent to another runway where he was apprehended by police after a brief scuffle in which two officers were allegedly injured.

Authorities said Mazik's actions caused significant disruption to the operation and services at the airport. The affidavit said 75 aircraft were placed in a holding pattern, and 80 aircraft were prevented from departing at their scheduled times.

A federal magistrate modified Mazik's bail last month, ordering him to reside at his mother's residence with active GPS monitoring.

Contact Michael Hinkelman at 215-854-2656 or hinkelm@phillynews.com or follow on Twitter @MHinkelman