SOFIA, Bulgaria – A 54-year-old man with a known criminal history was detained on Monday evening after discharging a gas pistol near a kindergarten in Sofia’s Lyulin district, sparking panic among nearby parents and prompting a swift police response.
The alarming incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. and was first reported by concerned parents who witnessed the man brandishing the weapon near the children’s facility.
Fortunately, no one was injured in the shooting, which authorities have since classified as an act of hooliganism. Responding officers from the 9th District Police Department arrived at the scene shortly after the call and swiftly located the suspect.
According to police reports, the man was found “in an inadequate condition” and was taken into custody without resistance. He has been detained for 24 hours as part of the initial investigation.
Commissioner Georgi Nestorov, head of the 9th District Police Department, confirmed the details during a media briefing on Tuesday.
“The individual is known to law enforcement and was in possession of a gas pistol at the time of the incident. Thankfully, there were no injuries or direct threats to the children,” Nestorov stated.
Gas pistols, which are commonly used for self-defense and produce a loud noise similar to real firearms, are legally allowed in Bulgaria under certain conditions.
However, their possession and use are strictly regulated. Commissioner Nestorov emphasized that such weapons must be registered with the appropriate district police department.
“People in possession of gas pistols are required to follow registration protocols. Failure to do so may lead to legal consequences,” he said.
He further explained that law enforcement officers are permitted to use physical force and auxiliary means, such as batons or restraint devices, when detaining individuals who pose a threat to public safety.
“Our officers acted professionally and decisively to prevent any escalation and to ensure the safety of the community, particularly the children in the nearby kindergarten,” Nestorov added.
The police have launched pre-trial proceedings against the man on charges of hooliganism, which, under Bulgarian law, may carry penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment depending on the severity of the act and any prior convictions.
Parents in the area expressed relief that the situation was brought under control swiftly but called for increased police patrols around schools and kindergartens.
“It was terrifying. We saw the man waving something and then heard a loud bang. Thankfully, the police came quickly,” said one parent, who asked to remain anonymous.
The incident has reignited debate over the regulation and monitoring of non-lethal weapons in urban areas, particularly in proximity to schools and childcare facilities.
Authorities continue to investigate the man’s motives and whether the weapon used was properly registered. Meanwhile, the kindergarten resumed operations on Tuesday under increased security measures.
Police are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior, especially near schools and playgrounds, to prevent similar incidents in the future.