St. Louis police deploy drones to first 911 calls after board approval
Chief Robert Tracy oversees the launch of the Aerial Response Unit, which utilizes six drones to support officers and guide EMS crews.
By Amina Kaminski ·
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department sent its first drone to a 911 call on Wednesday. The unit launched the operation hours after the Board of Police Commissioners approved the program. This marks the start of the Drone as First Responders initiative.
Chief Robert Tracy observed the initial flight from the Real Time Crime Center. The drone is based at North Patrol. Its first assignment involved a report of a suspicious individual. The person was knocking on doors and moving through alleys.
Tracy explained that the team dispatched the drone while cars were already on the way. The aircraft can travel at speeds up to 35 mph. It arrived at the scene within minutes. Officers did not spot anything unusual from the air. They were subsequently called off the assignment.
Tracy stated that drones serve multiple purposes. They can guide medical teams to patients in need. They can also provide officers with situational awareness during weapon-related incidents. Tracy emphasized that the technology helps keep both police and civilians safer.
The chief addressed concerns about camera usage. He noted that the department relies on policy, guardrails, and audits. The goal is to protect civil liberties and constitutional rights. Tracy said the department will address any violations immediately to maintain public trust.
Footage from the drones is stored for up to 30 days. This period extends if the video is part of a longer investigation. The department reviews clips to decide if they can be released to the public. Tracy said the team will consult a sunshine lawyer when determining what to share.
The department currently owns six drones. Each unit costs $100,000. The St. Louis Police Foundation funded the purchase. Tracy described this as a starting point. Two additional drones are coming to South Patrol. The department also discussed a Model Cities initiative grant on Wednesday. Tracy said the agency plans to use that funding to acquire more drones and hire additional FAA-certified operators. A new website page now displays flight paths and program details.
Tracy confirmed the department will continue expanding the fleet. The current setup covers initial gaps in patrol coverage. The board’s approval cleared the path for regular operational use. The first mission concluded without incident. The technology is now active in St. Louis.
The initial deployment tested the logistics of the new unit. The drone reached the scene faster than ground units. No suspects were found in the air. The officers returned to normal patrol. The program is officially operational.
