3:00pm | The Long Beach Police Department is warning residents that “celebratory” gunfire is illegal, dangerous to our community, and could result in senseless tragedy for those it hits as well as jail time for the shooter.
Discharging bullets in the air has resulted in injuries and deaths in the past across the country. A bullet can climb two miles into the air and remain in flight for more than a minute. As it falls, the bullet can reach a velocity of 300 to 700 feet per second. A velocity of only 200 feet per second is sufficient to penetrate the human skull. In most instances where a falling bullet strikes a person, it does so in the head or upper body which is very likely to cause serious injury or death.
In California, discharging a firearm into the air is a felony, and punishable by up to three years in state prison. If a stray bullet strikes someone, more serious consequences exist including the possibility of the shooter being charged with murder.
Long Beach Police will be out in force on New Year’s Eve, and will not tolerate those firing guns in the community. As a reminder, fireworks are also illegal in Long Beach. We urge residents to refrain from recklessly endangering the lives of others, and to celebrate safely.
Residents are encouraged to report gunfire occurring in their neighborhood by calling 9-1-1.