Helicopter spraying for mosquitoes is struck by stray golf ball in Oak Grove

A golf ball struck a Metropolitan Mosquito Control helicopter on Friday as it flew over an Oak Grove golf course.

Anoka County deputies were called to the 23000 block of Jackson St NE in East Bethel after the chopper was struck as the pilot was flying over the Refuge Golf Course.

The pilot told police he noticed a golf ball fly at the aircraft but he was able to safely land back in East Bethel, where he noticed damage to the helicopter.

Deputies went to the golf course and tried to identify the golfer who struck the helicopter, with the aid of golf course staff, but were unsuccessful.

It is unclear if it was an accident or if someone purposefully struck the helicopter. The investigation is ongoing.

The executive director of Metropolitan Mosquito Control, Daniel Huff, released a statement regarding the incident, thanking the Anoka County Sheriff's Office for assisting.

"The safety of our employees and our contractors is my top priority," says Huff. "Helicopters are an essential part of Mosquito Control operations, allowing the District to treat for mosquito larvae in large wetlands during the short window between when eggs hatch and when adult mosquitoes emerge from the water."

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

Related: Map: Where to find public golf courses in the Twin Cities