2 Facing Weapon-related Charges Following Egg Harbor Twp., NJ’s National Night Out Event

• Two arrested after gun scare at EHT National Night Out
• Police allegedly found two imitation firearms in a vehicle
• EHT Police: "The safety of our residents and community is our top priority."

Two people were arrested and are facing weapon-related charges following Egg Harbor Township's National Night Out event Tuesday evening.

Reports of a Firearm in Crowd

EHT Police say as residents were leaving Veteran’s Memorial Park after the fireworks, an officer who was directing traffic was flagged down and told that a person in a grey Ford Mustang had been brandishing a firearm.

Another witness then advised officers that a person had been pointing a firearm at a group of people before leaving.

• READ MORE: Teen With Gun Arrested Following Brawl at Apartment Complex in Mays Landing

Police Located Vehicle and Conductee Stop

Members of the EHTPD motorcycle unit were able to navigate through the exiting traffic, they found the vehicle, and conducted a high-risk traffic stop in the area of the Swift-Slaybaugh Complex.

Once those inside of the vehicle were safely removed, authorities say they found what appeared to be a small black handgun near the driver's door and another weapon on the floor of the passenger side.

Upon closer inspection, officers discovered that one of the handguns was actually a handgun-shaped lighter with a laser attachment. The other was an airsoft-type handgun.

Police said, "It was apparent that both imitation firearms could easily be mistaken for real weapons."

• READ MORE: 26-year-old Atlantic City, NJ, Man Arrested, Charged With Murder

Two Arrested

The driver of the vehicle, 21-year-old Benjamin Andrews, and 18-year-old Maya McKinley, both of Egg Harbor Township, were both arrested and charged with possession of imitation firearms, unlawful possession of weapons, and aggravated assault.

Andrews also received a traffic summons for having an open container.

Both were released on summonses after processing. No injuries were reported.

Problems 2 Years in a Row

EHT Police said in a press release,

For the second year in a row, our officers were tasked with dispersing several teenagers who were dropped off at the event rather than interacting with our community as intended.

The public is reminded that charges are accusations and all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.