MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A man is facing charges of aggravated assault for pointing a laser into the cockpit of a Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) helicopter.
Officials were alerted by a THP helicopter pilot about someone repeatedly aiming a laser into the cockpit around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1.
The helicopter was actively flying above Memphis when the incident happened, according to the affidavit.
In the police report, troopers emphasized that aiming a laser at an aircraft pilot can cause temporary blindness and disorientation, endangering both the flight crew and people on the ground.
The victims in this incident reported that the persistent laser pointing forced them to cover their eyes, leading them to operate the helicopter without maintaining visual contact with the airspace, which increased the risk of incapacitation or worse.
The laser was reportedly traced back to a shed behind 434 Angelus Street.
Police responded to the scene to make contact with the unidentified person. Upon arrival, a trooper spoke with a man through the window of the house.
While talking with the trooper, Eric Price, 47, reportedly admitted to being responsible for pointing the laser at the helicopter.
He was arrested and held on a $20,000 bond but has since been released.
