Police, lawmakers working together to monitor flare gun sales

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Discussions about flare guns are continuing after an increase in recent incidents involving minors using them for violence. Officials with the Albany Police Department said they will be working collaboratively with the state legislature and other organizations to track and prevent the sales and purchases of flare guns.

"We have seen an increase in the uptick of flare guns here with juveniles using them in a criminal nature," Officer Megan Craft said. "We are working to track and process the same flare guns to better deter and help those who are looking to use flare guns unlawfully."

A fire in Albany on July 4 was sparked by a flare gun. Authorities said in a press conference that the fire began after a juvenile fired a flare gun toward 333 Madison Ave. and another juvenile fired a handgun back. Four people were reported injured after being hit by rounds fired from the handgun. No injuries were reported in connection with the fire, but the three-story apartment building sustained significant damage.

New York State Senator Pat Fahy is introducing new flare gun legislation.

Officer Craft also said part of the solution depends on sellers complying with the state restrictions for purchasing a flare gun, including the customer being over 18 and showing identification.