Tuscaloosa County deputies warn against celebratory gunfire on the 4th of July

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. ( WIAT ) — Tuscaloosa County deputies are urging residents not to fire guns on the Fourth of July. They said not only is celebratory gunfire dangerous, but it is illegal in Tuscaloosa city limits.

Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Josh Hastings said he just wants residents to use common sense and stay safe.

“I tell people what goes up must come down,” Hastings said. “So the last thing you want to go out there to do thinking it’s not dangerous, and you don’t want to ruin someone else’s holiday by having someone struck by gunfire. So enjoy your time but be responsible about it.”

Toni Jones agrees with law enforcement. She and her family spent the Fourth of July boating on Lake Tuscaloosa. They are visiting from Mississippi. Jones is concerned about people shooting guns during the holiday. She is hoping by spending time on the water, she and her family can avoid the noise and potential danger.

“It can lead to other events, or it can lead to unsafe behavior, or it can have people perceive that it’s fireworks,” Jones said. “But it’s really gun shots, and they are not going to be aware of that, and it is an unsafe moment for them. It is so dangerous when people fire shots in the air. Anyone could get hurt.”

Hastings said those who are caught doing celebratory gunfire in Tuscaloosa city limits can be arrested and charged for discharging a firearm.

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