Fredericksburg Police See Increase In Kids With Guns: Report

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — More children are gaining access to firearms in the City of Fredericksburg, a report from the police department said.

In a recent Facebook post, the Fredericksburg Police Department said it has upped its "proactive police efforts" in recent weeks.

"After experiencing two firearms-related homicides within a three-month timespan, the Fredericksburg Police Department increased its enforcement efforts against people in possession of illegal firearms and/or illicit drugs," the police department said.

In the report, authorities cited several recent incidents, including a pair of situations involving children armed with guns.

On June 11, a Fredericksburg police officer reported seeing a 14-year-old boy acting suspiciously on Wicklow Drive. The boy had a loaded 9mm handgun and marijuana, according to the report.

On July 1, officers broke up a fight involving 25 people at the intersection of Tyler Street and White Street, authorities said. At the scene, officers found a 16-year-old boy who had a Glock 9mm pistol.

"The City is seeing an alarming number of juveniles with access to firearms or possessing firearms," the police department said. "The Fredericksburg Police Department is working tirelessly to identify the adults responsible for providing guns and drugs to our youth."

Authorities recommended that any gun owners in the city ensure their firearms are stored safely. There have been several instances this summer where guns have been stolen from unlocked cars, according to the police department.

"We urge parents and caregivers to stay vigilant of what their children are doing, who they're hanging out with, what they're storing in their bedrooms, and their online history," the police department said in its report. "If you know someone providing firearms or drugs to youth, or juveniles in illegal possession of firearms and would like to report them, call 540-373-3122."

Anonymous tips can be sent to the police department by texting a message starting with "FPDtip" to 847-411.