In a shocking incident, a plane was stolen from the North Las Vegas airport following a series of burglaries, as reported by FOX5 Las Vegas. The stolen aircraft, a 2020 Kitfox fixed-wing single-engine type, was allegedly taken by Damian Zukaitis, a 40-year-old man from Idaho. Zukaitis flew the plane for over 100 miles before landing it in a field outside Barstow, California. The severely damaged plane was found with beer bottles, cans, and part of a marijuana cigarette inside the cockpit.
The incident has sparked concerns among pilots at the airport, who are now taking extra precautions to protect their property. Longtime pilot and aviation attorney Jeff Lustick emphasized the need for increased security measures, such as surveillance, security officers, and fencing at the airport. Lustick believes that the threat has subsided for now, but urges everyone to remain vigilant.
The North Las Vegas airport authorities have released a statement expressing their commitment to the safety and security of their tenants, pilots, and passengers. They work closely with the local police department for law enforcement at the airport and have a contracted private security company that patrols after hours. The airport spokesperson advised pilots and tenants to lock and properly tie down their aircraft, as well as secure their hangars.
It has been discovered that Zukaitis may have been involved in attempted airplane burglaries in the days leading up to his arrest. The stolen aircraft was valued at approximately $80,000, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. The motive behind the theft and the suspect’s intended destination are still under investigation.
Damian Zukaitis faces charges of possession of a stolen airplane and taking stolen property across state lines. He will be extradited back to Nevada from San Bernardino County to face a judge in North Las Vegas Justice Court.
This incident serves as a wake-up call for airports and authorities to reevaluate their security procedures and practices. It highlights the need for enhanced measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
