The Dallas Police Department is urging city leaders to approve a new gunfire-detection system that would automatically launch drones to the scene of a shooting within 30 seconds to two minutes.
The proposal, presented this week, calls for technology capable of pinpointing the location of gunfire and sending an unmanned aircraft directly to the area before officers arrive.
Police officials say the system is designed to give first responders faster situational awareness, improve officer safety and help determine whether someone is injured or armed.
Several U.S. cities have tested similar drone-as-first-responder programs in recent years, and Dallas has been expanding its own drone fleet to support patrol and investigative work.
City staff are now reviewing the request, which would require funding and council approval before any rollout. Police leaders say the technology would not replace officers but could provide crucial real-time information during violent-crime calls.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube