Celebratory Gunfire

Celebratory gunfire, firing guns into the air during festivities, is not only illegal in Texas but also extremely dangerous. Stray bullets can seriously injure or even kill people, as well as cause extensive property damage.

Call the Shots

If you hear gunfire, take action by reporting it immediately to the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) non-emergency line at 210-207-7273. SAPD officers are trained and ready to respond, investigate, and enforce the law to keep our community safe.

Dangers

• Bullets shot into the air fall back to the ground with lethal force, causing severe injury or death even at significant distances.
• Falling bullets often cause damage to homes, cars, roofs and windows.
• Gunfire can trigger panic, stress and unnecessary emergency calls, diverting resources from other critical situations.

Impact on the Community

Tragically, Texas has witnessed the severe consequences of celebratory gunfire:

Corpus Christi, New Year's Eve 2023

An 11-year-old girl was killed by a stray bullet while celebrating with her family outside their apartment.

Houston, Christmas Eve 2024

A 12-year-old girl was injured by a stray bullet.

Houston, New Year's Day 2025

A 32-year-old woman was shot in the leg by celebratory gunfire.

Celebratory Gunfire Reports in San Antonio

• 2023 Average Daily Calls: 102
  • January 1: 361
  • July 4: 304
• 2024 Average Daily Calls: 79
  • January 1: 338
  • July 4: 287

Legal Consequences

In Texas, celebratory gunfire is clearly defined as a crime under Texas Penal Code (42.12):

• Recklessly discharging a firearm within a municipality of 100,000 or more residents is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by significant fines or imprisonment.
• Offenders may face additional charges under other applicable laws.