NC police warn against firing guns in celebration

CONCORD, N.C. — A North Carolina police department is warning residents that ringing in the New Year with celebratory gunfire is not only a bad idea, it’s illegal.

The Independent Tribune of Concord and Kannapolis reported that Concord police want to end a long tradition of firing guns into the air.

Police Capt. Betty Crump says people often don’t realize the danger created since a bullet shot into the air must come to earth somewhere. Crump noted holiday gunfire can kill, injure or cause damage buildings.

The message seems to be getting through. Concord police received six calls reporting New Year’s gunfire last year, down from 21 the year before.

A city ordinance allows a $500 fine for anyone who discharges a gun in the municipal limits.

Information from: Independent Tribune

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