As New Year’s Eve celebrations approach, the Park Forest Police Department is warning residents that firing guns into the air and driving under the influence are both unlawful acts that endanger lives and will not be tolerated.
Police say celebratory gunfire, sometimes mistakenly viewed as harmless, poses an extreme risk to the public. Bullets fired into the air must come down, often with deadly force, and can strike people, vehicles, or homes blocks away from where the shot was fired.
“There is no such thing as safe celebratory gunfire,” said Park Forest Police Chief Brian Rzyski. “Every round fired into the air comes down somewhere, and it can seriously injure or kill an innocent person. Discharging a firearm within the village is illegal and will result in criminal charges.”
Illinois law strictly prohibits the unlawful discharge of firearms, and violators may face arrest, felony charges, and the loss of firearm privileges. Police stress that even a single gunshot fired in celebration can have tragic and irreversible consequences.
In addition, the department is strongly reminding residents that drinking and driving is illegal and deadly. Officers will conduct increased patrols throughout the village on New Year’s Eve and into New Year’s Day to identify and remove impaired drivers from the road.
“Driving under the influence puts everyone at risk,” Rzyski said. “If you choose to drink, you must choose a safe ride. There will be zero tolerance for impaired driving.”
Residents are urged to plan ahead by using designated drivers, ride-share services, or public transportation. Police also encourage the community to report suspected gunfire or impaired driving immediately by calling 911 or the non-emergency line when appropriate.
By celebrating responsibly, keeping firearms secured, and never driving impaired, police say residents can help ensure the new year begins safely — without injury, tragedy, or legal consequences.