State Police Helicopter Forced to Make Emergency Landing After Laser Strike in Buffalo

BUFFALO, N.Y. (VINnews) — A New York State Police helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing after being repeatedly struck by a laser beam during a flight over Buffalo last year, an incident that police say led to the arrest of a 15-year-old Wednesday.

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation said the teen was charged with first-degree directing a laser at an aircraft, a felony under state law.

State police said the incident happened Oct. 16, 2025, around 8:15 p.m., when the aviation unit was flying near Ashley and Person streets. During the flight, a green laser repeatedly hit the cockpit, striking both the pilot and flight officer in the eyes as they wore night-vision goggles.

The exposure caused visual impairment and made it difficult for the crew to see their instruments, creating what police described as a serious safety hazard. The pilot altered course and made an emergency landing to avoid further risk to the crew.

Investigators with New York State Police, assisted by the Buffalo Police Department, later identified the suspect following an extensive investigation.

The teen was issued a Family Court appearance ticket and referred to Erie County Probation, authorities said.

State police warned that shining a laser at an aircraft can cause temporary blindness and disorientation, increasing the risk of crashes and endangering both flight crews and people on the ground.