The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public to refrain from using celebratory gunfire on New Year’s Eve. Celebratory gunfire is defined as “shooting a firearm into the air in celebration”. Not only is celebratory gunfire dangerous, but it is also against the law. Shooting firearms recklessly and discharging a firearm 50 yards from a public street or highway are both against the law. When you fire something up into the air, it must come down. Stray bullets can damage personal property and it can cause personal injury or even death.
When a firearm is discharged into the air, a bullet can travel approximately 219 mph before reaching the ground, according to the Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms Technology Experts in West Virginia. Many people think that a bullet will travel really high into the sky, but they don’t think about the fact that it comes back down at such a high rate of speed. The Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public to be mindful and remember what goes up must come down and that incidents from celebratory gunfire can easily be avoided.
Bibb County Sheriff David Davis said, “Every year we hear that someone has been injured or killed by celebratory gunfire. Randomly shooting a gun into the air is dangerous and illegal. It can lead to immense tragedy. Be responsible. Don’t let firearms join your New Year’s party.”
Bibb County Sheriff’s Patrol Deputies will be out on New Year’s Eve, paying special attention to individuals engaged in reckless conduct with firearms as well as those who decide to drink and drive. We want to do our part to ensure that everyone has a safe and Happy New Year’s celebration.
If anyone hears gunfire or sees anything suspicious call 478-751-7500, or notify your local law enforcement agency to report it.