Days after The Zero Lux published an investigative report contradicting the official version of the July 7 helicopter–drone incident in Kerrville, Texas, the city has quietly walked back key claims.
In a new Facebook post, Kerrville officials now acknowledge the drone was “authorized” and being operated during a flood rescue mission—confirming what our reporting revealed: it was flown by a Texas state trooper, not a rogue civilian as originally implied.
However, the city’s updated language introduces new confusion. Officials claim the drone “stalled,” a term that doesn't apply to multirotor drones. Drones don’t stall like fixed-wing aircraft; they fail, crash, or return to home.
Whether this is a misunderstanding or another hasty narrative shift, it underscores why The Zero Lux launched a series of formal FOIA requests now acknowledged by Texas DPS, the Army National Guard, and the NTSB. The state’s 10-day response clock is ticking.
We’ll publish the documents as they arrive.
Editor’s note / Reporter’s note:] Since publishing, I’ve taken the following steps to obtain the official records: I filed a Texas Public Information Act request on July 30. DPS has confirmed that responsive records exist but is seeking a ruling from the Texas Attorney General (Ref: P016271-073025). I’ve cited Texas Government Code § 423.008(b), which bars law enforcement from withholding drone-captured data unless a narrow exemption applies. I’ve also formally contacted both DPS legal and the AG’s office for comment and interview, and intend to pursue legal remedies if the records are withheld.
