A 58-year-old man in Annapolis, Maryland, is facing serious assault charges after allegedly pointing a handgun at three young girls who were singing Christmas carols door-to-door. The incident — which took place on the evening of November 22 — has shocked the local community and raised deep concerns about holiday safety and gun misuse.
Allegations: Gun Pointed at Carolers
Police say the group of 12-year-old girls knocked on the front door of a residence on the 1700 block of Point No Point Drive and announced they were singing Christmas carols. Instead of greeting them, the homeowner reportedly appeared at a bay window next to his door — and pointed a firearm directly at the children. The girls fled immediately. A parent then alerted authorities about the frightening encounter.
When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they recovered a loaded handgun from inside the home. The suspect — described as intoxicated and belligerent — later admitted to drawing the weapon on the minors.
Charges, Bond & Police Response
The man has been charged with first- and second-degree assault, along with additional counts related to reckless endangerment and carrying a loaded handgun under the influence.
Authorities released him on an unsecured bond of $10,000. A preliminary court hearing is expected in December. Meanwhile, police stressed that simply pointing a firearm at individuals — especially minors — qualifies as an assault, since it constitutes a threat to their safety.
Community Outcry & Holiday Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked outrage among residents, many of whom view the act as an alarming overreaction toward harmless holiday carolers. As the festive season approaches, parents and community leaders are urging greater vigilance and responsibility among gun owners. The case also highlights growing anxiety around firearm etiquette, mental health, and alcohol use in residential neighborhoods.
