Wiltshire Air Ambulance helicopter targeted in laser attack

The charity’s Bell 429 helicopter was subjected to the attack near their Semington airbase at around 9.10pm on December 10. As the crew returned to the airbase after a training mission, a “very bright” green laser was reportedly shone at the aircraft from the Trowbridge direction. While the pilot and the critical care paramedics on board were unharmed and landed safely, the organisation says the entire crew was placed at risk.

Chief pilot Matt Wilcock said: “This incident happened while we were undertaking a training flight, but had we been responding to a medical emergency then we would not have been able to land and give critical care. “Shining a laser at an aircraft is dangerous and irresponsible. It can seriously damage the eyes of those on board, which in turn could place the entire aircraft at risk with potentially catastrophic effects.”

Following checks the team was able to continue their night shift. This comes after another laser attack on the charity’s helicopter on August 22 when a similar light was shone from the Hilperton area. Shining a laser at an aircraft is a criminal offence carrying an unlimited fine and up to five years in prison.

Police are investigating and anyone with information should contact them on 101 and quote crime reference 54230131125.