FACT CHECK: Last Night’s Reported Gunfire Turns Out to Be Fireworks

Maricopa residents flooded social media last night with reports of gunshots in the residential area. Many linked the sounds to illegal immigration, causing a stir.

However, the Maricopa Police Department clarified the situation, attributing the noises to fireworks, not firearms.

Homestead residents Brian Hussey and Cecily Parks, among others, voiced their concerns on Nextdoor, claiming they heard shots. Glennwilde resident Shannon Trezos echoed these sentiments, stating she heard gunfire from Pacana Park.

Alterra resident Ann Marie Brown took to social media to decry the supposed link between the sounds and open borders.

Emily Castle Wehrle of Glennwilde expressed certainty on Facebook, claiming the disturbances occurred near Sunrise Preschool and that someone was taken away in an ambulance.

None of this was accurate. Police responded to reports of potential gunfire at North Portarosa Drive in Glennwilde, close to Wehrle’s home, but found no evidence of gunshots or ambulance activity.

Officials quickly determined the source of the noise was fireworks after consulting with several neighbors who had witnessed the displays. This was confirmed by Monica Williams, an MPD spokesperson, this morning.

No further actions were required, and the community was informed to alleviate any lingering concerns.