Tulare Times

Just before 9 p.m. on April 16, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office airplane, Wren-1, was performing routine patrol within the county. While flying over Farmersville, Wren-1’s flight crew was struck by a laser from the ground.

The flight crew identified the home from which the laser originated and directed officers with Farmersville Police Department to the location. Gary Akers, 58, was contacted and admitted to pointing the laser at the aircraft. A laser was also found and taken as evidence.

Akers was arrested and booked at the Adult Pretrial Facility. He also has an active warrant for possession of counterfeit items and check fraud.

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office at 559-733-6218.