Boys Blind Rescuers and Resident with Laser Pointer in Fulda
A green laser pointer temporarily blinded a resident and a rescue helicopter crew in Fulda on Tuesday evening. The incident occurred in the Aschenberg district at around 9:30 p.m., prompting a swift police response. Two young boys were later identified as responsible for the dangerous act.
The trouble began when a resident in Aschenberg reported being blinded by a green laser beam. Shortly after, the pilot and co-pilot of the Christoph 28 rescue helicopter experienced the same issue while flying over the area. Their vision was impaired, raising serious safety concerns.
Police traced the laser to an attic window in a nearby house. Inside, they found two boys, aged nine and ten, playing with a high-powered laser pointer. Officers immediately confiscated the device and filed a criminal complaint for endangering air traffic. Shining lasers at aircraft is a serious offence. Such actions can cause visual impairment and dangerous distractions for pilots, increasing the risk of a crash. Under German law, those convicted of laser attacks on aircraft can face multi-year prison sentences.
The case has been handed over to prosecutors, who will decide on further action. The confiscated laser pointer will remain in police custody. Authorities have warned that even seemingly harmless behaviour with lasers can have severe legal and safety consequences.
