HARTFORD — The Hartford Police Department reported on Tuesday that it responded to an incident in Centennial Park on Monday, in which it was reported that someone shot an arrow into the playground equipment while a child was playing on it.
On Wednesday, an individual contacted the department, saying that they had accidentally discharged their bow while target practicing in the vicinity of Centennial Park.
According to the HPD release, the department received a call that someone had shot an arrow into the park at 5:28 p.m. on Monday.
"An officer responded and met with the caller, who stated that she heard a "ping" sound and a child who was playing on the playground equipment, stated they found an arrow. The caller showed the officer where she believed the arrow had impacted the equipment," said the release. "There were no other arrows located in the area. It is believed the arrow was released from an area north of Centennial Park."
According to City Ordinance 41.02, the discharging of any firearm, rifle, spring gun, air gun (whether it is compressed air, gas or chemical), electric weapon, bow and arrow, crossbow, sling shot or blow gun is illegal, except by a police or law enforcement officer, member of the military in the line of duty or at a designated area, such as a shooting range, an area approved by a school authority or the recreation department, or when lawfully hunting with a bow and arrow or crossbow at a distance over 100 yards from a building located on another person’s property.
The ordinance also applies to "Orbeez"-style gel blasters, according to the release.
"This case remains under investigation. We are extremely grateful no one was seriously hurt or worse by this incident," said an updated release on Wednesday. "Thanks to all who offered assistance towards this investigation."
