Police: Don't celebrate New Year with gunfire

St. Petersburg's police and fire departments are urging residents not to repeat the celebratory gunfire that caused 16 incidents of damage and injuries last New Year's Eve.

In April, the two agencies produced a 30-second public service announcement explaining the dangers and urged residents to "leave fireworks to the professionals," and not "use their guns as party favors to celebrate the new year."

"Amateur fireworks are responsible for thousands of fires and injuries every year, including permanent scarring, loss of vision, dismemberment and even death," St. Petersburg Fire Marshal William Jolley said. "Be safe this year and every year. The best way to stay safe is to leave fireworks displays to the professionals."

Last year, David Mink, 24, of St. Petersburg was among those shot by a stray bullet. Mink was walking in the 700 block of Third Avenue S just after midnight when he was struck in the left shoulder, officials said. The bullet caused minor injury.

The other victim, Caprica Woodard, 15, was sitting outside of her 7th Street S home as "multiple gunshots were being fired to celebrate the New Year," police said. A single bullet struck her knee. Her injury was not serious.

Luis Perez, Times staff writer

Comments

[Kristina]

I AGREE 100 PERCENT. I PERSONALLY DON'T LIKE FIREWORKS AT ALL. I USUALLY GO TO CHURCH ON NEW YEAR'S EVE & SO DOES MY FAMILY & WHEN WE GET OUT OF CHURCH AROUND 1 A.M. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE DOWN THE STREET BECAUSE OF THE FIREWORKS. I DON'T BUY THEM FOR MY CHILDREN AT ALL, THEY ARE DANGEROUS!!!

[Adam]

If you insist on shooting guns during New Years, it's more fun to do it with a friend and point the weapons at each other. How else can you celebrate New Year's if you can't do it with a friend?

[LEO GIRL]

For those gun owners who think its cool to shoot your guns in the air... Here is a little bit of common sense pointed your way. What goes up must come down! Funny about the laws of gravity huh??

Kristina They are talking about guns not sparklers hun :0)

[Madison]

so both the idiots that shot guns in to the air where from south st. pete ??
..... enough said

[2bizzy]

I agree only an idiot shoots guns in the air, at least in the city. But also, it would have sucked to be Kristina's kid. HOW BORING!!! and a little paranoid it seems.

[shuturyap]

Madison- you are an idiot.