Allegedly Flew A Stolen Plane From Canada To Missouri

A 31-year-old student pilot has been indicted on charges of stealing an airplane in Canada and flying it at night over three states, eventually landing in Southern Missouri.

Adam Dylan Leon was indicted for interstate transportation of a stolen aircraft, importation of a stolen aircraft and illegal entry. All are federal crimes.

Authorities say Leon stole the Cessna 172 April 6th from the flight school in Ontario where he was learning to fly. The Associated Press reports he told the FBI we was "trying to commit suicide by U.S. fighter jet." U.S. fighter planes did intercept the plan as it crossed the border from Canada, and tried unsuccessful to contact Leon. He was nearly out of fuel when he landed on a road near Ellsinore, Missouri. He was later arrested without incident at a nearby store.

Leon appeared in federal court Thursday to determine if he was competent to stand trial. If convicted, he faces 20 years and 6 months in prison.

Leon is a Turkish-born naturalized Canadian citizen. He was described as "well liked" by Confederation College Flight School in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

FMI: http://www.tc.gc.ca