Police are investigating a helicopter pilot for reckless endangerment after flying too close to boaters in the Race to Alaska event  in Port Townsend, Washington.

Witnesses reported the rotor blades of the helicopter were lower than the tops of sailboats.

They said it was flying about 8 to 15 feet above the water.

Police identified the pilot as a 44-year-old man from Federal Way. He told officers he was flying to record video for a television show.

The FAA was informed and may launch its own investigation.

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com