Fort Myers police warn against celebratory gunfire during 4th of July

Writer: Carolina Guzman
Published: Updated:
fireworks

The Fort Myers Police Department is reminding the public to enjoy this Fourth of July without firing off guns in celebration of the holiday.

“On behalf of the Fort Myers Police Department, we hope everyone has a fun 4th of July! Reminder celebratory gunfire is not worth it!” the department posted on Facebook on Thursday.

Celebratory gunfire involves shooting firearms into the air during festivities or events as a form of celebration.

Shooting guns to celebrate the holiday can lead to severe consequences, including injuries or fatalities from falling bullets.

In 2021, during New Year’s Eve, FMPD had around 50 gunfire reports. During another New Year’s Eve, police caught 175 gunfire incidents.

That same year, a stray bullet from celebratory gunfire injured a Fort Myers EMS worker.

The police department encourages the public to enjoy the festivities while respecting the safety and well-being of everyone around us.

Another reminder: there are Fourth of July events happening across Southwest Florida to see fireworks in celebration of the independence of our United States from the monarchy of England in 1776.

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.