A shocking scene unfolded on Gallia Street when officers and EMS responded to a report of a juvenile being shot in the face. Both Scioto County Sheriff’s Deputies and New Boston Police rushed to the location, expecting the worst.
But when they arrived, they discovered the “weapon” in question was a flare gun—and miraculously, no serious injuries were reported. However, the situation took a turn when officers ran the juvenile’s information and found he had an open warrant through juvenile court.
FLARE GUNS & OTHER “NOT REAL” WEAPONS: A REAL DANGER
While a flare gun isn’t a traditional firearm, it’s far from harmless. Flare guns are designed to signal distress but can cause severe burns, start fires, and even explode on impact.
Many people assume that non-lethal weapons like BB guns, airsoft guns, and pellet guns are just toys—but they can cause serious injuries, ignite fires, and even be mistaken for real firearms, leading to deadly police encounters.
SAFETY FIRST: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
🔹 Never point a flare gun—or any type of gun—at another person.
🔹 Treat all weapons as if they are loaded and dangerous.
🔹 If a minor is in possession of a weapon (even a “non-lethal” one), proper supervision is crucial.
🔹 Understand that law enforcement may treat any gun-like object as a real threat, with serious consequences.
This close call on Gallia Street could have ended much worse—but it serves as a wake-up call about the real dangers of so-called “fake” weapons.
