The Richmond Police Department knows the public is excited to celebrate Independence Day. As many people are pulling out the grill to celebrate, some are thinking about shooting fireworks or firearms into the air. Both are illegal in the city.
In 2014, Brendon’s Law (§ 18.2-56.1) was enacted to implement harsher penalties for reckless handling of a firearm, including celebratory gunfire, resulting in serious injury.
“We want all citizens to have a safe and happy holiday this Fourth of July and enjoy events around Richmond,” said Special Operations Division Commander John O’Kleasky. “The Department plans to have a strong police presence to ensure safe celebrations.”
The Richmond Police Department would like to remind citizens of the following:
- Randomly firing a weapon in the city is illegal.
- Firecrackers, skyrockets, torpedoes and other fireworks that explode, travel laterally, rise into the air, or fire projectiles are prohibited.
- Legal fireworks displays are planned at the Diamond and Dogwood Dell on Wednesday, July 4.
Legal parking for Dogwood Dell is available at City Stadium on Douglasdale Road. Shuttle buses will be available from the stadium to Dogwood Dell.
- Do not impede the flow of traffic to view fireworks if you are in a vehicle. Please pull over to a safe location.
