Laser hinders search for missing person

The search for a missing person was hampered last night by a laser light aimed at a rescue helicopter.

The police helicopter was being used as part of the search for an elderly person when the chopper, which was off the ground, was struck by a laser pointer about 6.50pm.

It was decided that the helicopter should leave the area to complete a different task.

At 7.30pm, the police helicopter returned to the area but was affected by the laser again.

Police received complaints over a laser light hitting commercial aircraft around the same area.

Officers on the ground were directed to a property on Hurlston Way in Koondoola where they seized a laser pointer and charged a man with causing fear with laser or light to people in conveyances or others.

Police have summoned a 36-year-old Koondoola man to appear in court.