Teen arrested after brandishing replica handgun

OSHKOSH, WI – (WISS) – A 16-year-old Oshkosh man was arrested after he pointed a replica handgun at people and threatened to kill them. This incident put Oshkosh West High School in secure status for about 15 minutes on Tuesday afternoon. 

Oshkosh Police say they were called to the Skate Park on Taft Avenue for a disturbance involving several juveniles. The group of youngsters involved in the disturbance ran from the police to North Lark Street where the 16-year-old allegedly took out the facsimile handgun and pointed it at several people.

When OPD police officers attempted to make contact with the man he ran. After a short foot pursuit, he was taken into custody for Disorderly Conduct, Resisting an Officer, and seven counts of Recklessly Endangering Safety.  

Oshkosh Police say a replica handgun can be easily mistaken for real firearms by law enforcement and others because of their realistic appearance.

“This can quickly escalate situations and lead to potentially tragic outcomes during disturbances,” the OPD said in a press release. “We strongly encourage parents to be aware of the risks associated with their children having facsimile weapons.”