Pilots aboard a Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter experienced a laser strike to the cockpit while assisting the Harris County Sheriff’s Office during a manhunt.
Officials said the laser strike created a temporary blinding light, putting the pilots at serious risk.
Photos of the suspect were released.
Pilots aboard a Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter experienced a laser strike to the cockpit while assisting the Harris County Sheriff’s Office during a manhunt. (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)Pilots aboard a Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter experienced a laser strike to the cockpit while assisting the Harris County Sheriff’s Office during a manhunt. (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Authorities said the man attempted to hide from the aircraft but was ultimately located by the aircrew.
Law enforcement quickly detained the suspect.
Pilots aboard a Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter experienced a laser strike to the cockpit while assisting the Harris County Sheriff’s Office during a manhunt. (Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
“Shining a laser at an aircraft isn’t funny, cool or harmless, it’s illegal and extremely dangerous,” DPS said in a statement.
Pointing a laser at an aircraft can carry penalties of up to five years in prison, fines of up to $250,000, significant FAA civil penalties and potential felony charges if it interferes with flight operations.
Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.