Teen arrested with loaded gun in Union Square amid neighborhood violence

(WBFF) — For nearly a month, Union Square residents have had to deal with guns in their neighborhood.

Wednesday a The 16-year-old was arrested in the 1400 block of W. Lombard Street for having a loaded handgun.

The arrest took place around 11:00 that evening.

Two weeks ago, someone opened fire nearby, firing more than 30 shots.

Two cars were hit during that exchange of bullets.

“I heard all these shots and it sounded like it was right outside my bedroom window,” one resident said.

A week before that shooting, video surveillance revealed a drive by shooting that happened around 7 o’clock in the morning.

More than a dozen shots can be counted in the video.

Residents blame the recent violence on drug use and drug trafficking in the area.

Fox45 spoke with local resident Micah about the increase in crime in the neighborhood.

“Everyone knows it’s an illegal activity, so they know they’re a little bit safer with a gun if they’re in the drug trade,” Micah said. “They not only want to feel safer, but also want to expand that power. And scaring people into getting them dirty.”

Fox45 has contacted District Councilman John Bullock several times about the violence and drugs. However, after numerous emails to his office with a slew of questions, Bullock has not responded.

“It’s sad. It is one of the most important tools that tears a city apart,” Micah said.