548 firearms were turned in at a community gun buyback event in Rochester hosted by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and the Rochester Police Department.

The gun buyback event took place Saturday, and the total firearms collected included 32 assault weapons, 306 handguns, and 152 long guns.

“This event was part of Attorney General Letitia James’ ongoing effort to combat gun violence and keep New Yorkers safe,” the AG office said in a press release.

“Gun buyback events empower local communities to remove unwanted firearms off our streets and out of our communities,” James said. “Every one of the guns collected today is another potential life saved and tragedy averted. I thank the Rochester Police Department and my partners in local and state government for working with my office to ensure this event was a success. Together, we will keep protecting New York families from the scourge of gun violence.”

The event received praise for numerous lawmakers including Rochester Mayor Mailk Evans, U.S. Representative Joe Morelle, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, Senator Samra G. Brouk, Senator Jeremy Cooney, and Rochester Police Chief David M. Smith.

“Reducing the supply and spread of uncared-for firearms is a key step towards reducing gun violence in our community,” said Rochester Police Chief David Smith. “Although we will always take in unwanted firearms, events like these are a great incentive for community members to do the right thing and surrender unwanted or uncared-for firearms. 

To date, the Attorney General’s office says James has removed more than 8,200 guns from New York state since taking office in 2019.