Moline Police: Gun Seized at 150-Teen Halloween Gathering
Officers broke up a large backyard party on Saturday, arresting one person and securing a 9mm handgun.
By Chioma Brooks ·
Moline police officers recovered a firearm and arrested an 18-year-old resident while dispersing a large Halloween party on Saturday evening. The incident occurred at a residence in the 1500 block of 19th Avenue, where authorities estimated up to 150 teenagers were gathered.
Dispatches to the location began around 9:15 p.m. following reports of underage drinking and a weapon. Upon arrival, law enforcement found at least 100 teens in the backyard, many of whom fled as officers approached. During the dispersal, an officer attempted to detain an individual carrying a backpack. Brando Hodges of Moline intervened, attempting to take the backpack while the original carrier fled. Officers took Hodges into custody and secured the bag.
Inside the backpack, investigators found a 9mm semiautomatic handgun equipped with an extended magazine. Hodges also carried a replica Glock BB gun on his person, which was recovered during the stop. Hodges was booked into Rock Island County Jail pending court proceedings. He faces charges of aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon and resisting an officer.
Moline Police Chief Darren Gault connected the incident to recent mass shootings at Illinois Wesleyan University and Indiana University. In a news release, Gault stated that those events are tragic reminders of how quickly a celebration can turn into a tragedy. The presence of a loaded firearm at a crowded social event underscores the risks associated with large gatherings during the holiday period.
The investigation remains open. Police have asked the public for assistance in identifying other attendees or witnesses. Residents can call the Moline police department at 309-797-0401 or contact Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities at 309-762-9500. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the P3 Tips app.
The seizure of the 9mm pistol highlights the complexity of enforcing public safety rules at large, informal parties. While the immediate threat was contained, the large number of attendees and the rapid dispersal of the crowd present logistical challenges for investigators seeking to map the event's scope.
