A 27-year-old Gardena man was arrested over the weekend after allegedly aiming a high-powered laser at a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) helicopter responding to a street takeover.
Incident Unfolds at Busy Intersection
The incident occurred just after midnight on Saturday near Alondra Boulevard and Vermont Avenue in Gardena, where dozens of vehicles had taken over the streets, blocking traffic while pedestrians crowded the roadway.
LAPD’s Street Racing Task Force was dispatched to break up the illegal gathering when an LAPD helicopter arrived to monitor the scene from above. While circling the area, the aircraft was hit by a powerful green laser, which forced the pilot to take evasive action to avoid potential disorientation or injury.
Despite the interference, the pilot was able to track the suspect’s movements as he attempted to flee. Officers on the ground located and arrested the individual in the backyard of a residence on Berendo Avenue.
Suspect Identified and Facing Multiple Charges
On Tuesday, LAPD identified the suspect as Brian Gutierrez, who was taken into custody and booked on a felony charge for discharging a laser at an aircraft. Authorities also discovered that Gutierrez had an outstanding no-bail warrant, leading to his detention without bail at LAPD Central Station.
Prosecutors from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office have since filed an additional charge of assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, while the U.S. Attorney’s Office is expected to pursue federal charges as well.
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Dangers of Laser Strikes
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized that while pointing a laser at an aircraft may seem like a harmless act, it is a serious crime that jeopardizes public safety.
🚨 “Aiming a laser at an aircraft can temporarily blind a pilot, creating a dangerous situation for law enforcement and the community,” McDonnell stated.
Since the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began tracking laser incidents in 2010, over 300 pilots have reported injuries from laser strikes. These devices can cause permanent eye damage, affecting the cornea and vision clarity, with severe cases leading to temporary or even irreversible blindness.
Potential Federal Penalties
Beyond his local and federal charges, Gutierrez could also face an FAA fine of up to $11,000 for interfering with an aircraft.
Public Assistance Requested
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about this case to contact the LAPD tip line at 1-877-527-3247. Anonymous tips can also be submitted at 800-222-8477 or through the LAPD’s online reporting system.
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