"Toy Guns" lead to Shots Fired Call in the town of Verona

On May 19, 2025, at approximately 6:52 p.m., Oneida County 911 received a report of “shots fired” from a vehicle in the area of the Circle K in the town of Verona.

State Police responded to the scene and began gathering information. Simultaneously, Oneida County 911 issued a “be on the lookout” alert for the vehicle to area law enforcement agencies.

Shortly thereafter, members of the Rome Police Department located the vehicle on Curtis Street in the city of Rome and conducted a traffic stop. The vehicle’s three occupants were detained as the investigation continued.

Through the course of the investigation, it was determined that two juveniles in the vehicle had discharged a toy “Orbeez” gun and an “airsoft” gun into the air while traveling on Prospect Street and State Route 365 in the village of Oneida Castle. Witnesses observed this activity and contacted 911.

Investigators confirmed that all guns involved were toy guns. There were no reported victims, no allegations of individuals being threatened, and no property damage.

A review of surveillance footage and witness interviews further determined that no incident occurred at the Circle K in Verona.

The juveniles were released to the custody of their parents, and the case has been closed.

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