‘What goes up must come down’: Dangers of celebratory gunfire

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Ahead of New Year’s festivities, the Austin Police Department took to social media to remind residents that celebratory gunfire was illegal.

Celebratory gunfire is the act of shooting a shot or several rounds into the air.

“What goes up must come down, and it could hurt someone,” APD said in the post. “Let's keep the celebrations safe and sound!”

The department said discharging firearms into the air accounts for many U.S. injuries and sometimes even deaths every year.

“Discharging a firearm in the city limits is not only illegal, it is very dangerous,” APD said. "Bullets can return to the ground at speeds greater than 200 feet per second—a sufficient force to penetrate the human skull and cause serious injury or death."

Possible charges for celebratory gunfire include:

• Deadly Conduct, which has a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison
• Disorderly Conduct, which has a maximum sentence of 180 days in jail

In addition to discussing the dangers of celebratory gunfire, APD also issued a reminder that the mere possession of fireworks within the city limits was also illegal, and the punishment ranged from the seizure of the fireworks and a fine of up to $2,000 to jail time, or both.

According to an Austin city ordinance, an operational permit is required to manufacture, store, handle, sell, or use any quantity of fireworks or pyrotechnic special effects within city limits.

In Texas, fireworks can also only be sold from June 24 to midnight July 4, and Dec. 20 to midnight Jan. 1.

The department also provided access to resources for pet owners and Veterans. If your pet goes missing, text LOSTATX to 844-764-2125.

If you observe or hear of residents who violate any of these laws, contact APD by calling 911 for gunfire or 311 for fireworks or other non-emergencies. You may request the call remain anonymous.