Boulder, CO – A weekend rescue operation in the Rocky Mountains that initially appeared to be a tale of survival and ingenuity has taken an unexpected turn after the hiker at the center of the incident was charged with a federal crime.
Thirty-two-year-old Evan Richter of Denver was reported missing last Thursday after failing to return from a solo backpacking trip in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. After four days without contact, Richter was spotted Sunday afternoon by a commercial pilot flying a regional passenger jet between Salt Lake City and Denver.
Authorities say Richter aimed a green laser pointer used to entertain his cat at the aircraft from a snow-dusted ridge near Mount Toll. The beam caught the attention of the pilot and co-pilot, who immediately reported the incident to air traffic control. The aircraft landed safely, but not without incident.
“The pilot reported temporary visual impairment and disorientation,” said FAA spokesperson Carla Mendez. “This was a dangerous situation. Had it occurred during landing or takeoff, it could have been catastrophic.”
Richter, dehydrated and suffering mild frostbite, was airlifted by a Colorado National Guard helicopter later that evening. But within 48 hours of his rescue, he was served a federal citation under 18 U.S. Code § 39A, which prohibits the aiming of laser pointers at aircraft.
Richter, who claims he found the laser pointer in the bottom of his backpack only after inventoring his few dwindling supplies, expressed disbelief at the charges.
“It must have fallen into my backpack when I was packing. I wouldn’t normally pack a cat toy for a wilderness hike. I only used it as a last ditch effort to be rescued. I was stranded, low on food, and out of options,” he told reporters outside Boulder County Medical Center. “It was the only way I thought I’d be seen.”
Legal experts say intent may not matter.
“Federal law is clear,” said aviation attorney Marcus Held. “Aiming a laser at an aircraft is treated very seriously, regardless of the circumstances. It’s considered a threat to aviation safety.”
The FAA reports over 9,000 laser incidents involving aircraft in 2024 alone, many resulting in injuries to pilots. Though Richter’s situation is unique, authorities argue that allowing any exceptions could set a dangerous precedent.
“He’s lucky he was found,” said Lt. Greg Owens of the Boulder County Search and Rescue Team. “But that doesn’t negate the fact that he jeopardized dozens of lives.”
Richter faces a maximum fine of $11,000 and possible jail time if convicted. A court date has been set for June 14 in the U.S. District Court in Denver.
Public reaction has been sharply divided. Some hail Richter as a resourceful survivor, while others argue rules designed to protect air safety must be upheld.
“I’m just glad he’s alive,” said Richter’s sister, Amanda Keane. “But I also hope common sense prevails in court.”
As mountain hiking season ramps up, officials are reminding adventurers to bring traditional signaling tools — like mirrors, whistles, and emergency beacons — rather than devices that can endanger others.
Tips for safe hiking and signaling methods can be found at http://www.fs.usda.gov or your local ranger station.
Truth Bureau 