SFPD Drone Targeted: A Crucial Test for Police UAS Technology
On March 8, 2025, the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) faced intense scrutiny of its drone operations after an incident in the Outer Sunset neighborhood. Reports indicate that a suspect fired shots at an SFPD drone—marking potentially the first instance of such an occurrence since the department’s drone program commenced in 2024. During this encounter, the suspect engaged in a shootout with police, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries that required hospitalization, as per reports from Mission Local.
Incident Summary: Shots Fired at 41st Avenue
At approximately 4:32 PM, officers responded to alarming reports of an armed individual threatening residents near 41st Avenue, between Lincoln Way and Irving Street. To assess the situation from above, a police drone was deployed from their fleet of six. The suspect reportedly discharged his firearm at the drone—though it remains unclear whether it sustained any damage. Following this, the suspect opened fire again, prompting officers to return fire, which resulted in injuries to the assailant. Subsequently, he received medical assistance before being transported to a local hospital.
The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office, along with SFPD’s Investigative Services Detail and the Department of Police Accountability, is currently investigating this incident. A town hall meeting is mandated within the next ten days.
The Technological Aspect: SFPD’s Drone Fleet
Established in 2024 following Proposition E, SFPD’s drone program consists of six unmanned aerial systems (UAS), prominently featuring the DJI Matrice 30T. This advanced drone boasts a 48-megapixel camera capable of 4K HDR video, thermal imaging, a 45-minute flight duration, and a 9-mile operational range. However, SFPD strictly adheres to FAA-mandated line-of-sight regulations. Designed for tactical applications, each drone weighs under 55 pounds in compliance with FAA Part 107 guidelines, yet they lack robustness in the face of gunfire.
While speculation about the involvement of the DJI Matrice 30T in the Outer Sunset incident is rife—given its integral role in SFPD’s $150,000 drone program—the precise model utilized at that time has not been confirmed.
Implications and Legal Perspectives
This troubling event underscores the vulnerabilities associated with law enforcement UAS operations. These lightweight drones serve primarily observational purposes yet are ill-equipped to withstand physical confrontations, raising concerns among agencies nationwide.
The Outer Sunset incident exemplifies the duality of drones in law enforcement; they are beneficial instruments for situational awareness but can also be regarded as targets in hostile environments. Notably, under federal law—specifically 18 U.S.C. § 32—shooting at aircraft, including drones, constitutes a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
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