Happy Fourth of July everyone! Or should we say New Year’s Eve? You really can’t tell the difference with all the fireworks being shot in the neighborhood.
Several neighbors have posted videos of firework displays on social media days before the holiday.
Shooting fireworks is illegal in the city and punishable by a $2,000 fine.
This should go without saying, but celebratory gunfire is also not OK. The Dallas Police Department released a video warning that shooting into the air could result in a $4,000 fine and jail time up to a year. Injuring or killing someone with “happy bullets” could result in more serious charges.
So what’s a neighbor to do? Be diligent about calling in fireworks and gunfire and be as specific as possible. If you say, “I heard shots fired in the area,” your report will not be considered a high priority. If you report a street, intersection or apartment complex where officers can drive, they will be able to follow the lead.
If you actually see someone shooting or participating in other dangerous acts, even better, police say. Report the full details.
