A laser beam was aimed at a light aircraft in February 2020 causing a trainee pilot to suffer a burn to his retina. As a consequence he may have to give up on his chosen career.
Two laser beam attacks targetted aircraft flying from Oxford City airport within 48 hours of each other.
The first incident, on Febuary 4th, involved an an aircraft carrying three people as it flew overhead Chipping Norton. The pilot, aged 21, was latterly taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital for treatment.
The following day a second airfraft was approximately three miles north of Charlbury when a laser was shown towards that aircraft. There were no injuries onboard and the aircraft landed safely.
Police Constable Renee Gabbey-Cristofini, of Banbury police, said: "These were extremely reckless acts which placed both aircraft in significant danger. The trainee pilot of the first aircraft suffered injuries to the back of his eye which may result in him being unable to pursue a career in aviation."
Further comment was made, "The recklessness of such acts not only endangers the aircraft and all passengers on board but also those on the ground."
PC Gabbey-Cristofini also said, "Shining laser beams into the sky at aircraft is not acceptable and we are investigating thoroughly. I am urging anybody who may have any information to please get in touch."
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The Johnson Partnership
Doncaster Crime Solicitors