PARAMOUNT, CA – A 27-year-old man was arrested after allegedly shining a high-powered laser at an LAPD helicopter during a street takeover in Paramount over the weekend, police said.
Street Takeover Leads to Dangerous Laser Incident
The incident occurred just before 12:30 a.m. when officers from the LAPD Street Racing Task Force responded to reports of nearly 50 cars blocking the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Vermont Avenue.
Authorities say dozens of civilians were in the roadway, watching as drivers performed dangerous stunts.
When an LAPD helicopter arrived to assist, a suspect allegedly shone a green laser directly at the aircraft, temporarily blinding the pilots.
Suspect Arrested After Fleeing Scene
After aiming the laser, police say the suspect fled into the backyard of a home in the 15800 block of Berendo Avenue in Gardena.
With additional officers assisting in the search, police located and arrested the suspect, identified as Brian Gutierrez.
LAPD Warns of Laser Dangers
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized the severity of the crime.
“While pointing a laser at a helicopter may seem harmless, the actions of this individual are both illegal and dangerous,” McDonnell said in a statement.
Gutierrez was booked on suspicion of aiming a laser at an aircraft, a serious offense under federal law.
Additionally, police discovered he had an active no-bail warrant. Officers also recovered a black laser pointer during his arrest.
Police Seek More Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the LAPD Major Crimes Division at (213) 486-7280.
