Two Men Charged After Laser Attack on Kentucky State Police Helicopter

Two men in Mason County, Kentucky have been arrested this month after allegedly directing a laser beam and firing shots at a Kentucky State Police (KSP) helicopter during a search operation in Mason County.

According to KSP, Jason McKee, 49, of Mayslick, Kentucky, and Donald Boone, 55, of Aberdeen, Ohio, are facing multiple charges following the incident.

Incident During Search for Missing Child

The confrontation occurred earlier this month while troopers were conducting an aerial search for an 11‑year‑old child reported missing in Robertson County. During the mission, the helicopter’s pilot and tactical flight officer were repeatedly struck by a laser beam near Mayslick. Authorities reported that the tactical officer may have suffered an eye injury due to the exposure.

In addition to the laser strikes, the suspects allegedly fired multiple rounds from a firearm toward the aircraft, further endangering the crew.

Arrests and Charges

Both men were arrested at a residence in the 4100 block of US 62 near Mayslick and taken to the Mason County Detention Center. Jason McKee, 49, faces multiple charges, including two counts of wanton endangerment involving a police officer, discharge of a firearm, and laser interference directed at an aircraft. Donald Boone, 55, has been charged with wanton endangerment involving a police officer.

Broader Context

Laser strikes against aircraft are considered a serious federal offense in the United States, as they pose significant risks to pilots’ vision and overall flight safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has documented thousands of such incidents each year, underscoring the growing threat to aviation security. Even brief exposure to a laser beam can cause temporary blindness, disorientation, or lasting eye damage, jeopardizing the ability of pilots to safely operate their aircraft.

Federal law treats these acts with the utmost severity, carrying penalties that include substantial fines and potential imprisonment. Beyond the legal consequences, offenders risk being prosecuted under both state and federal statutes, reflecting the government’s zero‑tolerance approach to protecting aircrews and passengers. The FAA continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to raise public awareness, enforce strict penalties, and ensure that aviation remains safe from deliberate interference.


Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=laser, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, wowktv.com