ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — A 17-year-old male was arrested Saturday night after police responded to a ShotSpotter alert and found him carrying a loaded handgun, the Atlantic City Police Department announced.
Officers Christopher Campbell and Brandon Solano were patrolling near the 1100 block of Baltic Avenue on April 19 when the alert for gunfire came in at 9:53 p.m. While no injuries were reported, police located evidence of gunfire at the scene.
Key Points
- A 17-year-old boy was arrested after fleeing from police and being caught with a loaded handgun.
- The incident was triggered by a ShotSpotter alert on the 1100 block of Baltic Avenue.
- The teen faces charges of unlawful possession of a weapon, possession for unlawful purpose, and obstruction of justice.
Quick response leads to fast apprehension of suspect
According to the Atlantic City Police Department, officers observed the teen shortly after arriving at the scene. As they exited their vehicle, the 17-year-old fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by Officers Campbell and Solano.
Upon searching the suspect, officers recovered a loaded handgun. Authorities have not disclosed if the firearm was discharged during the incident.
The juvenile was taken into custody without further incident and charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and obstruction of justice.
Suspect remanded to Harborfields Detention Facility
The arrested teen, who has not been identified due to his age, was remanded to Harborfields Detention Facility following his arrest.
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Officials emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. No additional suspects are being sought at this time.
Police have not announced whether further investigation is being conducted into the origin of the weapon or any possible related incidents.
ShotSpotter credited with aiding rapid police response
Authorities highlighted the role of the ShotSpotter system in quickly alerting officers to gunfire, allowing them to respond rapidly and locate a suspect.
The Atlantic City Police Department continues to use technology like ShotSpotter to combat gun violence and ensure public safety.