Wiltshire Air Ambulance attacked by laser while attempting to land in Trowbridge
An air ambulance crew had to abort their mission after being targeted by a laser in Wiltshire.
It happened while the helicopter was attempting to land at Hilperton near Trowbridge just before 10pm on Sunday 6 September. The aircraft was taking part in a night flying training mission so fortunately no patients were affected but the lives of those on board were put at risk.
Shining a laser at an aircraft can distract the pilot and impair their vision, meaning they are unable to fly. It can potentially cause a crash.
Under the Laser Misuse (Vehicles) Act 2018, offenders can face an unlimited fine and can even be jailed for to five years for endangering an aircraft.
Police are investigating the incident and Wiltshire Air Ambulance has taken to social media to highlight the danger and impact of what happened.
The charity says the attack originated in the south west area of Trowbridge.
Anyone with information about the laser attack is urged to call Wiltshire Police on 101.
It is the fourth time in 2020 that Wiltshire air ambulance crews have been subjected to laser attacks - twice over Chippenham and once, during another training flight, over Corsham:
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Air Ambulance says, "This is the fourth laser attack on our helicopter this year. As well as endangering our crew onboard and our helicopter, this could have impacted on our ability to respond to a life-threatening emergency.
"Shining a laser at an aircraft is a criminal offence, with punishment of an unlimited fine and up to five years in prison. We would urge anyone with information to contact Wiltshire Police via 101."