Social media photo of juveniles with BB gun in public in Richmond. Source: Richmond PD
By Richmond Police Department
We are aware of videos circulating on social media involving Richmond Police officers detaining a group of juveniles at gunpoint this afternoon.
Officers responded after a community member reported seeing the group brandish what appeared to be a firearm, as shown in the photo. The juveniles were passing the firearm around and examining it. Given the information provided and the realistic appearance of the object, officers conducted a high-risk detention to ensure everyone’s safety.
Upon investigation, officers determined the item was a BB gun, not a real firearm. The juveniles were released after the scene was made safe.
This incident serves as an important reminder: BB guns and replica firearms can easily be mistaken for real weapons, especially during fast-moving situations. Brandishing or carrying them in public can place community members—and the individuals holding them—at serious risk. We are glad this incident was resolved without anyone being injured, but it underscores an important message — leave your BB guns or replica firearms at home!
Please speak with your children and teens about the dangers associated with replica or BB guns. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and we appreciate the community’s vigilance and understanding.
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