The BB gun chaos isn’t stopping—and this time it spilled into Bannon Park.
Police were called after a report that seven teens were shooting Orbeez guns at people walking through the park. By the time officers arrived, they couldn’t find an active victim, but were told one child had been hit and already left with her mother.
Officers were able to gather information on the group, including a brother and sister believed to be involved, along with their parent. That information is being forwarded to a school resource officer for follow-up.
If the victim comes forward and wants a report filed, police say they’re ready.
🚨 THIS ISN’T “JUST KIDS BEING KIDS”
After a wave of similar incidents—including someone hit in the eye and another person targeted while playing pickleball—Portsmouth Police are making it clear:
This isn’t harmless fun. It’s a crime.
Under city ordinance, discharging BB guns, air guns, or similar weapons inside city limits is illegal in most situations. Shooting at people—even with Orbeez—can lead to charges.
⚖️ WHAT THE LAW SAYS (IN PLAIN ENGLISH)
- You can’t shoot BB or Orbeez guns at people in the city
- You can’t drive around targeting random people or cars
- Use is only allowed in very limited situations—like inside a home with adult supervision or at approved ranges
Violations can be charged as a fourth-degree misdemeanor.
👀 PARENTS, THIS PART’S FOR YOU
If your kids have these guns, now is the time to step in.
- Make sure they understand where they can and can’t use them
- Talk about real consequences—not just “getting in trouble,” but hurting someone
- And don’t assume it’s harmless—because clearly, it’s not staying that way
Police say they’re done warning. If it keeps happening, the next step won’t be a conversation—it’ll be charges.
