Travis Kurt Myers, Laser Pointing, Montana 2025

Crime Soars: Columbia Falls Man Sentenced for Laser Threat

A Columbia Falls man is behind bars after a series of reckless and threatening actions, including pointing a laser at a helicopter. Travis Kurt Myers, 57, was sentenced to eight months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $15,000 fine, according to U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme.

The incident occurred on an undisclosed date, with law enforcement first receiving a report from a delivery driver who claimed to have been targeted by a green laser. The driver reported hearing a gunshot shortly after, and another witness came forward alleging that Myers had pointed a gun at her and discharged it at the ground.

Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the scene, and aerial surveillance was requested after they continued to hear gunshots coming from the area. A helicopter equipped with thermal-capable cameras was able to locate Myers outside his residence with a firearm. The pilots observed the laser and were able to capture it on their cameras, as well as the gun being fired.

Law enforcement officers on the ground near Myers’ residence could hear the helicopter in flight, supporting the theory that Myers had knowledge he was aiming the laser at the helicopter. Myers was taken into custody without incident, and a search warrant was obtained for the property. Numerous firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammo were located, as well as an unregistered silencer and a rifle with a green laser attached.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, with the ATF and the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office conducting the investigation. The reckless actions of Travis Kurt Myers have landed him in prison, a stark reminder of the consequences of threatening behavior.

Defendant: Travis Kurt Myers, 57, of Columbia Falls, Montana

Criminal Charge: Aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft

City and State: Columbia Falls, Montana

Date: Undisclosed, but sentenced in March 2025

Sentence: Eight months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $15,000 fine

Dollar Amount: $15,000

This article is part of our ongoing series, 'Crime Soars,' which highlights the most egregious and high-profile crimes in the region.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/columbia-falls-man-sentenced-prison-pointing-laser-helicopter