HOUSTON, Texas — It’s a message police have every year -- don’t pop fireworks in city limits, don’t drive while under the influence, and no celebratory gunfire. Police say while the message remains the same, the difference this year is that it’s all hands on deck with multiple agencies involved.
With safety top of mind for the Houston Police Department as we head into another holiday weekend, a big focus for the department and the agencies they’re working closely with is celebratory gunfire.
“Should you hurt somebody with a gun by firing it off irresponsibly, if they die, you could be charged with manslaughter,” said Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg. "That carries a sentence of 2 to 20 years. If they're just harmed, you could be charged with aggravated assault. Again, a crime that carries 2 to 20 years."
Houston police say they arrested five people last New Year’s Eve for celebratory gunfire and there were 2 reported injuries.
“The speed in which the bullet comes out of the gun, it’s got to find his way down," HPD Chief Troy Finner said. "So please don't, don't do it. It’s just a really dangerous thing to do and we're going to be out looking to hold those individuals accountable all over our city all over our county.”
The injuries from celebratory gunfire unfortunately are not uncommon in our city and they can be fatal.
“In 2020, I spoke with the family of a 61-year-old registered nurse at the Menninger Clinic, Philippe Ashford, who was killed by celebratory gunfire," said Andy Kahan with Crime Stoppers. "It's real. It happens."
While fireworks are also something people hear on New Year’s Eve, the Houston Fire Department wants to remind people it’s illegal to do that within city limits.
“There is a fine of $500 to $2,000 per incident," HFD Chief Sam Pena said. "And every year we make this reminder, Fourth of July, Christmas, New Year's, and every year, we get people that are injured or worse."
Eyes will also be on the road as people travel to and from their plans.
“Our message is clear," said a DPS trooper. "Don't drive intoxicated. The consequences can be disastrous."
Police are asking people if you see someone shooting a gun call 911 and if you hear gunshots but are not sure where they’re coming from call their non-emergency line 713-884-3131 for Harris County you can call 713-221-6000.