Juvenile Taken Into Custody at Leesburg Wegmans for Theft, Possession of Realistic BB Gun

A 16-year-old male was arrested in Leesburg, Virginia, after allegedly stealing from a local Wegmans and being found in possession of a realistic-looking BB gun. The incident occurred around midday on May 14, prompting a police response to reports of a shoplifter visibly carrying what appeared to be a firearm.

Officers located the teen outside the Wegmans on Crosstrail Boulevard SE with the stolen merchandise. The holstered weapon, initially believed to be a real firearm, was later identified as a Beretta BB gun, manufactured to resemble a semi-automatic handgun. Authorities confirmed the individual was a juvenile, and he was taken into custody without incident.

The teen now faces charges of retail theft and possession of a firearm by a minor, due to the gun’s realistic appearance. He was transported to the Loudoun County Juvenile Detention Center. No injuries were reported, and the case remains under investigation.

In response to the event, the Leesburg Police Department issued a reminder to parents and guardians about the dangers of replica firearms. Authorities stressed the importance of educating youth on the consequences of carrying such items in public, which can result in emergency law enforcement interventions and legal repercussions.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Leesburg Police Department press release.

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