A late-night argument over fireworks at an Idaho park has resulted in serious felony charges after authorities say a man threatened to kill a group of teenagers, pulled out a handgun, and pointed it directly at them.
According to court records, Shane Michael Sutton, 37, was arrested this week and charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon following the confrontation on July 13 at McCowin Park in Ammon, Idaho.
Fortunately, no shots were fired, and no one was injured during the incident.
Deputies Respond to Reports of Armed Confrontation
The incident unfolded at approximately 11 p.m. near the park’s pickleball courts when deputies with the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office received reports that a man was pointing a gun at several people.
When deputies arrived, they found a group of teenagers who described a frightening confrontation that had begun over fireworks.
According to court documents, the teenagers said an unknown man confronted them before the argument quickly escalated.
Teenagers Say Man Threatened Their Lives
Investigators allege Sutton became aggressive during the confrontation and shouted, “I will f—ing kill you,” at the teenagers.
According to charging documents, Sutton then pulled a handgun from his waistband, racked the slide—producing an audible click—and pointed the firearm directly at members of the group.
The teenagers told investigators they feared they were about to be shot.
Suspect Arrested at Nearby Gas Station
By the time deputies reached the park, Sutton had already left the area.
Law enforcement officers later located him at a nearby gas station, where he was taken into custody without incident.
Cellphone Video Allegedly Captured the Incident
Investigators obtained a cellphone video recorded during the confrontation.
According to court documents, the footage allegedly shows Sutton shouting, “You won’t do s—, I will f—ing kill you,” before displaying the handgun.
Authorities also said another portion of the video appears to show Sutton lifting his shirt, removing the pistol from his waistband, pulling back the slide, and walking away while still carrying the firearm.
The video is expected to be used as evidence in the criminal case.
Teen Says Confrontation Started Over Firework
One of the teenagers involved, Yaser Elabed, said the confrontation began after Sutton accused the group of setting off a firework that struck his girlfriend.
Elabed described Sutton as arriving aggressively and said the man allegedly pushed members of the group when they attempted to calm the situation.
He said he genuinely believed Sutton was preparing to shoot.
Despite the threats, no gunfire was reported, and no one suffered physical injuries.
Judge Sets $75,000 Bond
Following his arrest, Sutton appeared before a judge, who set his bond at $75,000.
He has been ordered to return to court for a preliminary hearing on July 28.
Serious Felony Charges Carry Prison Time
Each of Sutton’s three aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charges carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 if he is convicted.
Court records do not currently list an attorney representing Sutton.
The case remains pending as prosecutors continue pursuing the charges stemming from the alleged armed confrontation at the Idaho park.
