Damian Zukaitis, 40, was detained after allegedly stealing a 2020 Kitfox fixed-wing single-engine plane from North Las Vegas Airport and flying it to Southern California. The purported jet theft occurred after a string of airport burglaries. Zukaitis landed the plane near the California desert’s Barstow-Daggett Airport. When the plane’s owner found it, he discovered signs of marijuana use and considerable damage. An emergency locator transmitter informed the Air Force, which led to Zukaitis’ arrest by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office. Possession of a stolen airplane and carrying stolen property over state lines are among the counts, with further charges pending in Nevada. The FBI has assumed command of the continuing investigation.
Plane Theft and California Journey
Damian Zukaitis is accused of stealing a 2020 Kitfox fixed-wing single-engine aircraft from the North Las Vegas Airport and flying it to Southern California. The alleged plane theft occurred following a series of burglaries at the airport, raising questions about the motive behind the unusual journey.
Upon locating the stolen aircraft, the owner found a marijuana joint, beer cans, and bottles in the cockpit. Additionally, there was noticeable damage to the propeller and engine. The discovery raised concerns about the state of the plane and the circumstances surrounding Zukaitis’ unauthorized use of the aircraft.
The plane’s owner was alerted by the Air Force after an emergency locator transmitter indicated a possible accident involving the stolen aircraft. The involvement of the Air Force heightened the seriousness of the situation and led to the apprehension of Zukaitis by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office.
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Legal Charges and Extradition
Damian Zukaitis is facing charges that include possession of a stolen airplane and transporting stolen property across state lines. Additional charges are pending in Nevada. Zukaitis is expected to be extradited to Nevada to face legal proceedings in North Las Vegas.
The FBI has taken the lead in the ongoing investigation to unravel the details of the plane theft and Zukaitis’ actions.
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