Drone Collision Grounds Firefighting Plane During Deadly Palisades Fire

Culver City man pleads guilty to operating a drone that damaged a critical firefighting aircraft, disrupting efforts to contain a devastating Southern California wildfire.

Peter Akemann, 56, admitted to flying a drone that collided with a Canadian Super Scooper aircraft fighting the Palisades Fire on January 9, 2025.
The collision caused a 3-by-6-inch hole in the plane's wing, grounding it for repairs during critical firefighting operations.
The Palisades Fire burned over 23,400 acres, destroyed thousands of structures, and resulted in 29 fatalities, making the aircraft's loss highly consequential.
Akemann agreed to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge, pay over $65,000 in restitution, and complete 150 hours of wildfire relief community service.
Authorities emphasized the dangers of unauthorized drone use near wildfires, citing risks to first responders and the public.

Orange County Register

U.S. Department of Justice

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