Crime & Safety
DuPage County, IL Halloween Party Takes Scary Turn After Gun Costume Accessory Fires
Wheaton, IL – A Halloween costume accessory turned a private event into a frightening scene Monday, Oct. 27, after an antique firearm reportedly fell from a chair and accidentally discharged at Front
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-28T15:25:21.609Z
Wheaton, IL – A Halloween costume accessory turned a private event into a frightening scene Monday, Oct. 27, after an antique firearm reportedly fell from a chair and accidentally discharged at Front Street Kitchen in downtown Wheaton, prompting a police and emergency response.
According to information shared by Wheaton Yard, the incident occurred during a private event when an antique firearm being used as part of a Halloween costume fell from a chair onto the floor, causing it to discharge. The business said security footage from the scene corroborated the account.
The incident occurred near 111 E. Front St., in Wheaton, DuPage County, approximately 25 miles west of downtown Chicago.
Initial reports from the Kane & DuPage County Scanner Facebook page indicated that Wheaton police and firefighters responded to a report of a 26 year old man who had been accidentally shot. The scanner report also indicated the scene had been secured for paramedics.
However, subsequent information from the business indicated that no serious injuries occurred during the incident.
The City of Wheaton also issued a public notice acknowledging a large police presence in the 100 block of East Front Street while officers conducted their investigation.
City officials emphasized that there was no ongoing threat to the public, although residents and visitors could continue seeing police activity in the area.
In a statement addressing the incident, Wheaton Yard expressed gratitude for the outcome and the emergency response.
"We are thankful that no one was hurt and our police department 's rapid response," the business stated.
The business also emphasized that firearms are strictly prohibited at Wheaton Yard, with signs posted at property entrances notifying visitors of the restriction.
The incident highlights how quickly an unusual Halloween costume accessory can create a dangerous situation, even during a private gathering.
Authorities have not provided additional details about potential citations or charges.