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Two Arrested After Laser Strikes and Gunfire Target Kentucky State Police Helicopter During Search

The case has been referred to the FBI for potential federal charges.

Overview

  • The incident occurred the night of Nov. 3 near Mayslick as a state police helicopter assisted a search for a missing 11-year-old.
  • A tactical flight officer sustained a possible eye injury from the laser and was hospitalized, according to Kentucky State Police.
  • Jason McKee, 49, of Mayslick, and Donald Boone, 55, of Aberdeen, Ohio, were arrested at a U.S. 62 residence after investigators identified the suspects.
  • McKee faces counts including first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer, wanton endangerment for discharging a firearm, and laser/vision interference; Boone is charged with first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer.
  • Both men pleaded not guilty at arraignment, with cash bonds set at $100,000 for McKee and $50,000 for Boone, and court records say McKee told investigators he believed the aircraft was a drone and admitted firing a .380 handgun.