Authorities seized a child's laser light that momentarily blinded the flight crew of a state patrol aircraft - forcing the plane to abort landing at Centennial Airport to avoid a potential crash.
Evidence suggests the youth - in the company of an adult - pointed the high-intensity green light, interfering with the pilot’s ability to control the aircraft. Lasers can also blind a flight crew.
A state trooper aboard the endangered aircraft said: "A laser strike is not a harmless prank."
No one was hurt.
In the Aug. 19 incident, "the cockpit was illuminated by a green laser coming from the left side of the aircraft," the patrol said. "The flight crew aborted the landing and began circling the area to locate the source."
"While circling, the laser struck the aircraft a second time" and "the aircraft’s onboard camera system, identified the source and location as a second-story balcony at a nearby apartment complex," the patrol said.
The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the close call.
"Parents and guardians should talk with children about the dangers of lasers and ensure laser devices are stored and used responsibly," the patrol said. "Anyone who sees a person pointing a laser at an aircraft should immediately contact local law enforcement."
Such abuse can be considered a felony.
[Photos: Colorado State Patrol]
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