Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department Warns Against 4th-of-July Celebratory Gunfire

On the eve of America’s biggest fireworks display, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) posted a sober reminder on its Facebook page urging residents not to shoot firearms into the air during the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations.

The post, released on June 29, 2026, cites California Penal Code section 246.3—"Shooting in a Grossly Negligent Manner"—and warns that firing a gun into the sky is illegal, dangerous, and can result in injury or death. The department highlighted how a single upward shot can travel several blocks before falling, often striking people or property with lethal force.

LASD, the largest sheriff’s department in the United States, employs roughly 19,000 people, including 9,915 sworn deputies. Beyond policing unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, the agency provides courthouse security for the Superior Court, manages inmate housing and transportation, and contracts with 42 of the county’s 88 independent cities and the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

California’s 246.3 statute was enacted after repeated incidents of celebratory gunfire that caused injuries and property damage. The law imposes both civil and criminal penalties—including fines and imprisonment—for anyone who discharges a firearm into the air with the intent to celebrate, thereby endangering public safety.

The danger of celebratory gunfire is well documented. A bullet fired upward travels a great distance before descending; its velocity upon impact can still be lethal. Falling projectiles have caused injuries and fatalities across California, and because their trajectory is unpredictable, anyone in the vicinity of a celebratory shot is at risk.

California’s gun‑violence statistics underscore the need for public‑safety messaging. In 2024, the state recorded 44,447 firearm deaths, including suicides, homicides, and accidental shootings. A preliminary 2025 report shows 81 gun‑related incidents and 444 fatalities in the previous year. While celebratory gunfire accounts for a small fraction of these incidents, it remains a preventable source of injury.

The LASD’s social‑media outreach is part of its broader public‑education mission. By reminding residents of the legal and safety risks associated with celebratory gunfire, the department seeks to reduce accidental injuries during holiday celebrations. It also encourages gun owners to store firearms securely at home and to use approved fireworks or other safe celebratory methods.

At present, LASD has not reported any new arrests or prosecutions related to celebratory gunfire for the current holiday season. The department’s message serves as a preventive measure ahead of the Fourth of July and aligns with statewide efforts to promote responsible gun ownership and public safety.

The reminder arrives at a timely moment, reflecting California’s ongoing commitment to reducing gun‑related harm through education, enforcement, and community outreach.