Police: Teen with Airsoft rifle led to active shooter calls in Anderson

ANDERSON, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Anderson Police Department said an incident on Thursday led to a scare about an active shooter, however, there was not an active shooter in the community.

According to the police chief, a 16-year-old was walking down the street with an Airsoft rifle near his home at the intersection of Best Lane and East Hampton Street just after 9 a.m.

The teen fired several rounds from the Airsoft gun near Condor Nursing Center. People inside the facility heard the shots and saw the teenager who appeared to be armed, prompting them to call 911. Dispatchers said initial calls came in as an active shooter situation.

When police arrived on the scene, the teenager ran back inside his home. Officers began negotiating with the teen but said he did not immediately respond, leading police to believe he barricaded himself inside.

According to the police chief, the teenager later told them he was showering and did not barricade himself inside the house.

The teen eventually came out of the house and has taken to the police department for questioning about the incident.

Officials said a search warrant was obtained for the home and found a broken plastic Airsoft gun and a .22 revolver.

The teen will be charged with breach of peace and weapons violation for possession under age.

No one was injured during the situation.

This story is developing. Stay tuned for further details.

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