When a man and a teenage girl boarded a flight from Seattle to San Francisco, Alaska Airlines flight attendant Shelia Frederick grew suspicious. The man appeared well-dressed, while the girl was not and avoided making eye contact with others. Throughout her duties on the plane, Shelia couldn’t shake her concern for the girl and eventually devised a brave and clever plan that ultimately saved the young girl from a perilous situation.

Despite her responsibilities, Shelia persistently attempted to make eye contact with the girl while serving snacks on the flight. She shared her suspicions with a colleague, and together, they collaborated to divert the man’s attention, allowing Shelia to communicate with the girl.

During this coordinated effort, Shelia discreetly placed a piece of paper and a pencil in one of the plane’s bathrooms, locking it with the intention of unlocking it only for the girl. While her colleague engaged the man, Shelia mouthed the word “bathroom” and mimed writing, patiently waiting for the girl’s response.

Sex and the Flight Attendant
Sheila Frederick, 49, was working on an Alaska Airlines flight from Seattle to San… https://t.co/hoA9Y2GjYf

— Imoan (@throughtprocess) February 6, 2017

Fortunately, the girl excused herself to use the bathroom. Although the man accompanied her, Shelia refused to leave the area, maintaining a vigilant watch. Shelia left a note in the bathroom, and the girl responded, revealing her desperate plea for help.

Shelia promptly informed the pilot, who, in turn, contacted ground control to arrange for authorities to apprehend the man upon landing. The full story, narrated by the heroic flight attendant herself, can be heard in the clip below.

Shelia has remained in contact with the young woman she rescued from human trafficking, and over the years, they have spoken several times. According to the Western Journal, the young woman is now attending college.

Shelia Frederick’s courageous actions serve as a poignant reminder to trust instincts and report suspicious activity. Sharing this story honors the bravery and compassion of Shelia Frederick, setting an inspiring example for us all.