The DPS chopper was helping the Harris County Sheriff’s Office with a manhunt when investigators say someone pointed a laser at them.
HOUSTON — A Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter was targeted by a laser strike while helping with a manhunt in the Houston area Friday, putting the pilots in serious danger, according to the TxDPS Southeast Texas Region. A man was arrested after trying to hide from the helicopter.
It happened as the DPS aircraft was working with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office to find a suspect. The laser momentarily lit up the cockpit, creating a dangerous situation for the crew in the chopper.
Despite the dangerous interference, law enforcement successfully located the suspect before the situation could escalate further. The helicopter’s surveillance camera showed the man peeking at the helicopter from a corner of the house.
Another photo shows the man being taken into custody with holiday inflatable decorations in the yard.
Laser strikes on aircraft are considered serious safety threats. When a laser beam enters a cockpit, it can temporarily blind or disorient pilots, particularly during critical phases of flight. The incident highlights the risks law enforcement pilots face while conducting aerial operations.
The DPS shared thermal imaging footage from the helicopter showing various stages of the manhunt, including views of the suspect and the surrounding area during the operation.
No injuries to the flight crew were reported, and authorities did not immediately release information about potential charges related to the laser strike or details about the suspect who was being pursued.
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