Earlier this week, the Mansfield Division of Police issued a press release on the subject of children and their access to firearms. In it, they shared:
The Mansfield Division of Police would like to remind parents in our community to speak to their children concerning the dangers of firearms and what to do, should one be found by a child.
If a child locates a firearm, the child should not touch it and should report its location to an adult right away, who should then contact police. Anytime a firearm is found, it is important to call police and report its location. Do not touch the weapon as it may be loaded and could lead to an injury if picked up.
Recently, there was a crime committed where an armed suspect was caught shortly after committing a robbery. However, the firearm was not in the suspect’s possession. It is possible the firearm may have been hidden and/or “passed off” to another individual, prior to officers locating the suspect. Officers did search the area on two different occasions but were unable to locate the firearm. This occurred in the area of South Foster Street.
This reminder is being put out as there are times where a person fleeing police, after committing a crime, may “toss” a firearm in order to avoid being caught with it.
Chief Ken Coontz wants to express the importance of firearm safety as well as to notify parents that these types of dangers do exist in our community. If anyone comes across a firearm, do not touch it and please contact police immediately so that it can be secured safely.
