A Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) helicopter made an emergency landing on Tuesday after being struck by a drone while responding to a brush fire near the Encino Reservoir.
The fire, which threatened homes near the reservoir and Sepulveda Basin, was first reported shortly before 12:30 p.m. in the 4500 block of North Encino Avenue, south of Ventura Boulevard.
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), the fire started due to downed power lines. LAFD Chief Jaime Moore explained that firefighters initially tackled a 50×50 spot fire caused by the power line. However, another spot fire erupted nearby due to the same power line, prompting firefighters to redirect their efforts.
As reported by ABC7, an evacuation warning was issued for residents around the Encino Reservoir but was lifted after about an hour and a half. Despite the fire being contained quickly, firefighting efforts were complicated by a drone colliding with an LAPD helicopter dispatched to the scene. The helicopter made an emergency landing at Van Nuys Airport, and no injuries were reported.
LAPD Capt. Brian Wendling emphasized the dangers of flying drones near active fire scenes, stating, “Curiosity can cause danger.” Mayor Karen Bass condemned the drone operator’s actions, warning of arrest and prosecution if identified. She stated, “It is completely unacceptable and illegal to fly drones like this.”
In total, 153 firefighters worked to extinguish the flames, and power was temporarily knocked out for residents in the area. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about drone interference during emergency operations.
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