The FBI and the Federal Aviation Administration have launched a joint investigation after a drone collided with a Los Angeles Police Department helicopter over Tarzana on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.
The Airbus AS350 helicopter sustained windshield damage and made a precautionary landing at Van Nuys Airport.
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According to the LAPD, the airborne collision occurred just before 3 p. m.
near Highway 101 and Reseda Boulevard while the crew was tracking a kidnapping suspect.
Drone Violated Airspace Regulations
Flight data showed the police aircraft was operating at an altitude between 1,200 and 1,300 feet, well above the 400-foot legal ceiling for civilian drones.
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The impact involved an unauthorized device that officials described as a relatively large drone.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass strongly condemned the drone operation during a press conference following the incident, calling it completely unacceptable.
The mayor issued a stern warning regarding interference with emergency flight operations.
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"This is a warning to anybody who's flying a drone that interferes with Fire or PD: We will find you, you will be arrested, and you will be prosecuted," Bass said.
