Suspect Arrested After Shining Laser at Aircraft in Denver Area
A 41-year-old man was arrested Thursday night in Commerce City after allegedly aiming a green laser at multiple aircraft, including a Colorado State Patrol (CSP) airplane. The incident unfolded near East 64th Avenue and Monaco Street, where CSP’s aircraft unit, already in the air for traffic operations, responded to pilot radio reports of laser strikes in the area.
While investigating, the CSP crew spotted the man and caught him on video repeatedly targeting their aircraft with a laser. They guided ground units to the suspect’s location, where he was apprehended. He now faces charges including unlawfully aiming a laser at an aircraft, driving under the influence of drugs, and possession of methamphetamine. He is being held in the Adams County Jail pending his advisement hearing.
The dangers of laser strikes are far-reaching, especially for low-altitude flights like medical helicopters. Flight for Life Colorado has faced recurring issues with laser attacks. One pilot, Ron Trani, emphasized how such incidents threaten their missions, especially during landing approaches when full visual focus is crucial. The organization also shared the story of a clinical crew member who permanently lost 30% of vision in one eye due to a laser strike.
Flight for Life recently reported another near miss involving a blue laser while approaching St. Elizabeth Hospital in Fort Morgan. Program Director Kathleen Mayer hopes these stories underscore the seriousness of laser strikes and deter others from similar behavior.
According to the FAA, there were 12,840 laser incidents reported in the U.S. in 2023 and over 5,100 already in 2024, highlighting an urgent need for public awareness and accountability.
