Man accused of pointing laser at planes landing at Tampa International Airport
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A man was arrested Thursday after he allegedly pointed a laser at a JetBlue plane that was landing at Tampa International Airport, according to police.
Douglas Sollenberger, 47, was seen pointing the laser at the flight, which was landing after midnight on Thursday morning, police said.
The investigation began in April after police investigated more than 40 incidents involving lasers being pointed at planes since Jan. 1. Police said the investigation narrowed down to a specific location in South Tampa.
Officers saw Sollenberger with a laser and then allegedly saw him point it at the incoming plane, police said. He was found with two lasers, one of which was believed to have been used in the Thursday morning incident.
The pilot reported being hit by the laser, but the flight landed safely, police said.
“These laser strikes are not only illegal but also incredibly reckless behavior that could have resulted in a tragic accident,” Chief Lee Bercaw said in a statement. “We are grateful for the tireless efforts of our officers and the FBI in bringing this case to a close.”
Sollenberger was charged with misuse of a laser lighting device.
WFLA.com has reached out to JetBlue for comment.
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