SALINA, New York (WWNY) – A 16-year-old was taken into custody after a New York State Police helicopter crew reported a green laser illuminating the aircraft’s interior. Officials say it happened near Buckley Road in the town of Salina on July 17, 2026, at approximately 11:32 p.m.
How troopers located the suspect
The pilot used the aircraft’s thermal imaging system to locate a person beneath an overhang near a picnic table who was allegedly directing the laser at the aircraft. The pilot relayed the location to troopers assigned to ground patrols for the Syracuse Nationals After Hours event.
Troopers located the teen and took them into custody without incident. A laser-equipped device was recovered and secured as evidence.
Charges and court appearance
The teen was charged with Directing a Laser at an Aircraft in the First Degree. The 16-year-old was issued an appearance ticket for Onondaga County Youth Part Court and released to a parent.
The investigation is being handled by the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation at State Police North Syracuse.
State Police warning to the public
The New York State Police said pointing a laser at an aircraft is dangerous and illegal. A laser can temporarily blind or disorient a pilot, impair night vision and jeopardize the safety of the flight crew, passengers and people on the ground.
State Police remind you that you should never point a laser at an aircraft or toward the sky when an aircraft is present.
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