Authorities investigating after shots fired at Phoenix police helicopter

PHOENIX — Multiple men were detained after shooting at a Phoenix police helicopter early Monday morning, authorities said.

Police, including two officers in a helicopter, responded to a report of gunshots fired near 36th Street and Van Buren Street just before 1:30 a.m., according to the Phoenix Police Department.

As the helicopter was flying overhead, police said the suspects fired multiple shots at it.

Burton Smith, 33, and Duane Bryant, 28, were both detained once patrol officers arrived.

The Violent Crimes Bureau’s Assault Unit subsequently took over the ongoing investigation.

A preliminary investigation suggested both Smith and Bryant were firing rifles at the helicopter, and they were arrested on probable cause. The two men were booked on aggravated assault on a police officer and several counts of weapons violations, authorities said.

The helicopter was inspected and did not suffer any damage, according to authorities.

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