Drone Footage Captures Tense Standoff: Armed Boys, 7 and 9, Highlight Urgent Gun Safety Concerns
May 12, 2025
Sheriff John Allen emphasized the need to address the complex issues of juvenile crime, mental health, and public safety in light of this incident.
This incident is part of a troubling trend in New Mexico, where there has been a rise in violence involving young offenders, prompting calls for legislative action.
The situation underscores broader discussions about child access to firearms and the potential dangers associated with it.
The use of drone technology during the incident facilitated a swift response, potentially preventing a tragic outcome.
Currently, the boys are receiving therapy and family services, while their parents are also undergoing therapy and legal representation.
No charges have been filed against the boys due to their young age, and authorities are instead providing access to trauma therapy and behavioral support for the family.
In response to such incidents, the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office aims to enhance community-focused behavioral health services to better address similar situations in the future.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office has a history of responding to the family's home, indicating ongoing concerns for the children's safety.
Questions remain about how the children accessed the loaded firearm, raising serious concerns about gun safety and parental responsibility.
During the standoff, deputies used a non-lethal round to distract the boys, allowing them to safely approach; fortunately, the gun malfunctioned when one boy pulled the trigger.
In February 2025, a standoff involving two boys, aged 7 and 9, armed with a loaded handgun, was captured on drone footage released by the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office.
The video highlights the urgency of the situation and the deputies' non-lethal approach, which successfully resolved the incident without any injuries.
Summary based on 18 sources
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Sources

NBC News • May 13, 2025
Drone video shows New Mexico deputies disarm children handling a loaded gun
AP News • May 13, 2025
Drone footage shows New Mexico deputies disarm children handling a loaded gun | AP News
AP News • May 13, 2025
Drone footage shows New Mexico deputies disarm children handling a loaded gun | AP News