BUFFALO, NY — A 15-year-old was arrested on a felony charge of directing a laser at an aircraft.
The Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrested the Buffalo juvenile on Jan. 7, 2026.
On Oct. 16, 2025, at 8:15 p.m., a New York State Police Aviation Helicopter was working a detail in the city near Ashley and Person Street when the aircraft was struck repeatedly with a green laser.
The laser struck both the pilot and flight officer in the eyes while they were wearing night vision goggles.
The strikes caused spotting in their vision and operators were unable to see their interior gauges.
The incident created a serious safety situation for the occupants and the pilot had to change course to avoid further lasering.
State Police, along with the Buffalo Police Department, conducted an investigation that led to the arrest.
The juvenile was issued a Family Court appearance ticket and referred to Erie County Probation.
The charge is directing a laser at an aircraft in the first degree, a class E felony.
