Celebratory gunfire will be prosecuted this 4th of July

By John Sharp

Both law enforcement and public safety officials are warning persons not to engage in celebratory gunfire within or into any Missouri city limits this July 4 due to its sometimes deadly consequences and enhanced criminal penalties for offenders.

Blair’s Law named for 11-year-old Blair Shanahan Lane who died here as the result of being struck by celebratory gunfire while playing in the yard during the July 4 holiday in 2011 was passed by the Missouri General Assembly last year and signed into law by then Missouri Governor Mike Parson.

It makes such gunfire a misdemeanor state criminal offense that goes on a person’s permanent criminal record, not just a city ordinance violation, and subsequent offenses are escalating felonies.

Persons whose gunfire can be traced to deaths can be charged with involuntary manslaughter as was the person implicated in Blair’s death who was convicted of that crime.

Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson said, “Those who consider firing a weapon within city limits during July 4 celebrations should know it’s illegal under Blair’s Law. Celebratory gunfire is not only dangerous but also a criminal offense.”

“If you witness gunfire, please report it to law enforcement immediately. Your reports can help ensure a safer community and assist in holding offenders accountable,” she said.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves has warned, “On July 4, KCPD officers will be conducting enforcement on those who choose to put others in danger by shooting guns in our city. Celebratory gunfire is dangerous, illegal and has resulted in death, right here in Kansas City.”

“KCPD has made numerous arrests for celebratory gunfire and will continue to enforce Blair’s Law until dangerous celebratory gunfire ceases,” she said.

My son, State Representative Mark Sharp, sponsored Blair’s Law for several years in the Missouri House of Representatives until it finally passed in 2023 as part of an omnibus anti-crime bill, but that law was vetoed by Governor Parson due to his objections to other unrelated parts of the bill.

Mark never gave up because he promised Blair’s mom, Michele Shanahan DeMoss, he would keep introducing it until it passed and was signed by the Governor.