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FBI Hunting Drone Operator Responsible for Damaging Firefighting Plane in Los Angeles Wildfires
Jan
The FBI is on the hunt for a drone operator whose reckless actions caused significant damage to a Canadian Super Scooper plane battling the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, delaying crucial firefighting efforts.
The Collision: A Drone Hits a Super Scooper
The Super Scooper plane, a vital tool in combating wildfires, struck a privately-owned drone while gathering water to suppress the flames. The collision tore a 3×6 hole in the aircraft’s left wing, forcing an emergency landing and causing a 20-to-30-minute delay in firefighting operations.
Assistant Director Akil Davis from the FBI’s LA field office condemned the drone operator’s actions, stressing the danger posed to firefighters and the public.
“When this happens, it puts everybody’s lives at risk,” Davis told reporters.
Why Super Scoopers Are Critical in Firefighting
Super Scoopers are low-flying aircraft designed to scoop water from lakes or oceans and dump it directly onto fires. These planes are essential in containing massive wildfires, especially in difficult-to-reach areas.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed temporary flight restrictions over the wildfire zones to protect pilots, firefighters, and residents. However, despite these restrictions, unauthorized drones continue to interfere with aerial firefighting operations.
The Legal Consequences of Flying Drones in Wildfire Zones
Flying drones in restricted airspace is illegal and poses serious risks. The LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman warned that anyone caught operating a drone in wildfire zones will face severe penalties.
“You will be arrested, you will be prosecuted, and you will be punished to the full extent of the law,” Hochman stated.
The FAA also reminded drone operators that interfering with firefighting aircraft is a federal crime, punishable by hefty fines and potential jail time.
Investigators Are Closing In on the Drone Operator
FBI investigators are actively working to identify the drone’s owner by tracing its manufacturer and serial number. Digital evidence from the drone’s flight path and footage shared on social media is also being examined.
Why Unauthorized Drones Are Dangerous in Wildfire Zones
Unauthorized drones in wildfire areas impede critical operations, forcing firefighters to ground aircraft to avoid further collisions. This delay in aerial support can mean the difference between life and death for those in the path of the flames.
“Our biggest concern is that there are so many unauthorized drones in the area that they are impacting law enforcement and firefighters’ efforts to suppress this fire,” Davis explained.
The Scope of the Wildfires and Emergency Response
The Los Angeles wildfires have already caused massive devastation, destroying thousands of homes and forcing tens of thousands of residents to evacuate. The emergency response teams rely heavily on aerial support to control the spread of the fire.
With firefighting aircraft grounded due to rogue drones, the containment efforts are significantly hampered, making the situation even more dangerous for firefighters and residents alike.
A Warning to Drone Operators
The FAA and local authorities have issued repeated warnings about the dangers of flying drones near wildfires. Even if temporary flight restrictions are not in place, drone pilots must stay away from disaster zones.
“It’s not just about legal consequences,” Davis emphasized. “It’s about protecting lives and making sure that firefighting operations can continue without unnecessary delays.”
