Phoenix, AZ – As New Year’s celebrations begin tonight across the Phoenix area, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that firing a gun into the air is not a celebration — it’s a crime with potentially deadly consequences.
According to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, discharging a firearm within or into the limits of any municipality is illegal under Arizona law. Officials say celebratory gunfire puts lives at risk because bullets fired into the air eventually come down, often with enough force to seriously injure or kill someone.
Under Arizona Revised Statute §13-3107, a person who, with criminal negligence, unlawfully discharges a firearm within city limits can be charged with a Class 6 felony. Law enforcement officials say arrests and charges related to celebratory gunfire are possible during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations.
The warning applies across Maricopa County, including Phoenix and surrounding Valley cities, where fireworks and loud noises are common during holiday celebrations. Authorities stress that gunfire can easily be mistaken for fireworks, making it harder for officers to immediately locate the source while still posing a serious danger to nearby residents.
The Sheriff’s Office encouraged residents to celebrate responsibly by attending permitted fireworks displays or using legal consumer fireworks where allowed, rather than firing weapons into the air. Officials also urge residents to report suspected celebratory gunfire to local law enforcement.
“Remember, what goes up must come down,” the agency said in a public safety message, adding that the goal is for everyone to enjoy a safe and happy New Year without preventable injuries or tragedies.
Residents are reminded that safety laws remain in effect throughout the holiday and that violations can carry long-term legal consequences beyond the celebration itself.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
