A Lothian man was arrested Tuesday night after allegedly firing a semi-automatic rifle near residential homes, prompting a large police response and an aerial search by authorities. No injuries were reported.
Christopher Edward Jones, 34, was taken into custody without incident after officers responded to a report of gunfire at around 10:30 p.m. in the 100 block of Bobcat Court. A witness told police that Jones discharged a round from a green, black, and gold rifle before walking into a nearby wooded area.
Responding officers reported hearing yelling and the distinctive sound of a firearm being racked behind a residence. Jones was located at his home and detained. A Diamondback Arms Model DB15 AR-15-style rifle was recovered from the rear deck of the property and secured as evidence.
Anne Arundel County Police deployed their Aviation Unit to assist in searching the surrounding wooded area for any potential victims or additional suspects. The search did not uncover any injuries or further individuals involved in the incident.
Jones was charged with reckless endangerment and firearm-related offenses. Police said the arrest was carried out peacefully and that no further threats were identified in the area.
Key points
- Police responded to gunfire near residences in Lothian on Tuesday night
- A semi-automatic rifle was recovered; no injuries or additional suspects were found
- Christopher Edward Jones, 34, was arrested and charged without incident
Police recover AR-15-style rifle during firearm discharge investigation
Authorities said the firearm used in the incident was a Diamondback Arms DB15, a semi-automatic rifle resembling an AR-15. It was discovered on the suspect’s property shortly after he was detained. Investigators did not confirm whether the weapon was legally owned or registered.
The witness account and physical evidence led police to charge Jones with reckless endangerment and the unlawful discharge of a firearm near occupied dwellings. Officials emphasized that no rounds were found to have struck any homes or structures.
Police said they would continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and any possible contributing factors.