Utica, NY – A routine stop in Oneida County escalated Saturday evening when a flare gun was discharged during a struggle, injuring a sheriff’s deputy and a juvenile.
According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened around 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, when a deputy working with the Utica Police Department’s Tactical Unit conducted a citizen stop involving two individuals on Chestnut Street in Utica, Oneida County.
Authorities said one individual informed officers they were in possession of a flare gun, which was secured. While officers attempted to speak with the second individual, that person allegedly began to struggle with law enforcement. During the altercation, a flare gun discharged, causing significant burns to the deputy and one of the males involved, who had been stopped.
According to officials, the deputy sustained burns to the neck and hands, while the male suffered burns to his back. Both were treated at Wynn Hospital. Due to the extent of his injuries, the deputy was later transferred to Upstate Medical Center and released Sunday morning.
Investigators said both individuals involved were juveniles. They were ultimately released to the custody of their guardians following the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities say additional updates will be provided as they become available. Officials also emphasized the dangers associated with flare guns and similar devices, urging parents and guardians to ensure such items are not in the possession of minors due to their potential for serious injury.
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