Government UAS pilot reported flying the UAS into a low bush while hovering. The propellers were damaged and the UAS fell 2-3 feet to the ground

Date: 2025-06 · Aircraft: Small UAS (At or above 0.55 lbs and less than 55 lbs) · Phase: cruise

Anomalies: inflight-event-encounter-object

Synopsis

Government UAS pilot reported flying the UAS into a low bush while hovering. The propellers were damaged and the UAS fell 2-3 feet to the ground

Narrative

I responded to a police operation; regarding an armed suspect; as a Police RPIC.An exterior sUAS was needed to assist in getting situational awareness of the exterior of the target residence.I launched the sUAS and flew on the SW corner of the target residence. At the time I had numerous other officers with me and the sUAS could be seen from my point of view as it was just slightly behind the house on the corner of the target residence.While avoiding other hazards; including an overhanging tree branch near that corner of the residence; one of the sUAS propellers clipped a small bush; located approximately 2-3 feet from the ground; with the ride side of the sUAS and the bush caught it. This occurred at approximately XA45-XB50 hours.While awaiting another officer [to] retrieve the drone; it fell from the bush and struck the ground. The total fall was approximately 2-3 feet.This bush was visually missed due to my focus being the overhanging tree on the other side of the sUAS; leading to focus being diverted.Once retrieved; I observed the two right side propellers to be broken near the tips as well as a plastic piece; out of place.No property was broken beyond propellers nor were there any injuries to people.

NASA callback

The reporter had no additional information to share.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.