Douglas Sollenberger : “Tampa Police Arrest in Laser Strike Case”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Tampa Police Laser Strike Arrest
2. Laser Strike Investigation Tampa Police

The Tampa Police Department has arrested a suspect linked to a series of laser strikes on commercial aircraft landing at Tampa International Airport (TPA). Since January 1st, 2024, over 40 incidents of lasers being pointed at incoming flights have been investigated, posing a severe threat to pilots and passengers. The suspect was located in South Tampa after a thorough investigation. Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized the dangerous and illegal nature of these acts. With the assistance of the FBI, officers monitored the suspect before apprehending him in possession of a laser device. The suspect, Douglas Sollenberger, has been charged and taken into custody. TPA Executive Vice President John Tiliacos commended the collaborative effort in protecting aircraft and passengers.

The Arrest of Suspect in Tampa Laser Strikes

On April 25th, 2024, the Tampa Police Department made a breakthrough in the case of laser strikes targeting commercial aircraft approaching Tampa International Airport (TPA). This dangerous trend had been ongoing since the beginning of the year, with over 40 incidents reported. The investigation led officers to focus on a specific area in South Tampa, where they eventually made the arrest.

Collaboration with Law Enforcement Agencies

The Tampa Police Department worked in close collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to track down the suspect responsible for the laser strikes. The joint effort involved extensive surveillance and gathering of evidence to build a strong case against the perpetrator.

Observation and Arrest of the Suspect

Just before 12:30 am on April 25th, officers from the Tampa Police Department, both in the air and on the ground, observed the suspect, later identified as 47-year-old Douglas Sollenberger, in possession of a laser light device. They witnessed him pointing the laser directly at an incoming Jet Blue flight, endangering the lives of passengers and crew.

Recovery of Evidence

Following the incident, Sollenberger returned to his residence in South Tampa, where he was promptly taken into custody by Tampa Police Officers. A search warrant was obtained for his residence, leading to the recovery of two lasers, one of which was believed to have been used in the early morning incident. This evidence further strengthened the case against the suspect.

Charges and Consequences

Douglas Sollenberger faces charges of Misuse of a Laser Lighting Device, a serious offence that carries significant consequences. He was transported to Orient Road Jail to await further legal proceedings.

Message from TPA Executive Vice President

John Tiliacos, the Executive Vice President of Operations at Tampa International Airport, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in ensuring the safety of flights. He expressed gratitude towards the efforts of the Tampa Police Department and FBI in protecting aircraft, passengers, and crew members. Tiliacos strongly advised against pointing lasers at aircraft, highlighting the potential dangers and risks involved.

Overall, the arrest of the suspect in the Tampa laser strikes case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of reckless behaviour that endangers the lives of others. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies have led to a swift resolution in this case, sending a strong message against such criminal activities.