Fixed-Wing Aircraft Was En Route To Napa County Airport

A California Highway Patrol aircraft was targeted by a person with a blue laser last week, leading to the arrest of the man wielding the device.

The Reporter news paper reports that 33-year-old Christopher Larsen of Vacaville, CA was arrested in possession of a "laser device" in connection with the incident.

According to the CHP, the agency's Air-31 aircraft was en route to Napa County Airport (KAPC) when a blinding blue light entered the cockpit.  A CHP official said that the suspect "pointed the laser directly at our aircraft striking our pilot in the eye. The pilot was able to maintain control of the aircraft due to the auto pilot being engaged. The Flight Officer directed the camera towards the direction of the strike as the suspect (continued) to strike the CHP aircraft.”

The suspect was identified by Solano Sheriff's officials who placed him under arrest. He was booked into the Solano County Jail on two counts of interfering with CHP air operations.

He may also face federal charges for targeting an aircraft with a laser.

(Image from CHP Facebook page)

FMI: Source Report