Despite repeated warnings by fire and law enforcement officials, a drone was spotted over a portion of the raging Sand Fire Tuesday, forcing a temporary halt to aerial firefighting in the area.
According to incident commanders, the drone was spotted around 2 p.m. near the Pacoima Reservoir, and Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies were working to locate the drone operator.
Drone activity in the area forced a halt to some aerial firefighting efforts over the weekend, and authorities warned against further incursions that could prolong the blaze.
The FAA has imposed a Temporary Flight Restriction over the Sand Fire area, opening the operators of illegal drones to potential federal charges, in addition to local charges, officials said.
Officials did not disclose any information about efforts to find the drone operator, nor what kind of action may be taken against that person.
–City News Service