Queens gun buyback hauls in 124 weapons including assault guns in record haul
Queens, NY – More than 100 firearms, including assault-style weapons, were taken off the streets in a single day after residents anonymously surrendered guns during a major buyback event in Southeast Queens.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that 124 guns were collected Saturday at Mount Olivet Baptist Church during a gun buyback hosted in partnership with the NYPD and New York State Attorney General Letitia James. Participants turned in weapons in exchange for prepaid bank cards loaded with cash, with no identification required and no questions asked.
Officials said the event marked the 12th gun buyback held under Katz’s administration and the largest collection to date. Since 2020, a total of 741 firearms have been recovered through similar events coordinated by the Queens District Attorney’s Office.
Among the weapons surrendered were 49 pistols, 44 revolvers, 10 assault weapons, five rifles, five derringers, one shotgun, and 10 additional items including imitation and BB guns.
Katz said the buyback removed firearms that could have been used in crimes and credited collaboration between law enforcement, community leaders, and residents for the results. Attorney General James also praised the effort, calling each surrendered gun a step toward protecting families and reducing violence.
The event was co-sponsored by the NYPD and the Office of the New York State Attorney General and held at the Southeast Queens church with the support of local faith leaders.
Key Points
- 124 guns were surrendered during a Queens gun buyback event
- The haul included 10 assault weapons
- The event was anonymous and offered cash incentives
