Two youths in Richmond Hill are facing charges after police say a laser was pointed at a police helicopter earlier this month. According to York Regional Police, the incident happened on October 23, just before 9 p.m., when the Air2 helicopter was struck by a laser while flying over the city.
Police say the quick response of the flight crew and officers on the ground helped locate two youths inside a nearby mall. Both were allegedly found in possession of a laser. The two youths have since been charged with mischief to property endangering life and obstructing a peace officer.
Police remind the public that pointing lasers at aircraft can pose a serious safety risk, potentially distracting or temporarily impairing pilots and putting those on board in danger. What may seem like a harmless prank can have serious consequences.