Police warn about New Year's gunfire

RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) - Nervous police agencies are issuing their annual reminders against discharging firearms or setting off illegal fireworks to celebrate New Year's Eve.

In Rio Rancho police said officers on patrol will be alert for gunfire and unapproved fireworks and will cite or arrest violators.

Fireworks louder than a cap gun or that rise higher than 10 feet are outlawed in Rio Rancho and many other municipalities and counties.  But it is the firing of weapons raising the most concern.

"Because what goes up must come down," a statement from the Rio Rancho Police Department said. "The velocity of that bullet (missile) coming down can penetrate the roof of a car or residence."

In 2005 a bullet Albuquerque police said likely was fired in celebration of the 4th of July struck an 11-month-old girl in the head. The baby was seriously injured but survived.