A man is facing charges of arson and violating firearms regulations after allegedly firing an illegal incendiary shotgun round sparked a wildfire in Jackson Township, New Jersey.
Officials say Richard Shashaty, 37, fired “Dragon's Breath” ammo, which erupted in a shower of burning magnesium shards in a flamethrower-like display. This ignited dry brush and other materials on the berm of the Rifle Club where the shot was fired. Drought conditions allowed the fire to spread quickly, causing the evacuation of 15 homes and threatening nearly a dozen more before firefighters were able to get the blaze under control.
Arson charges and firearms violations are a serious matter, and when public safety is threatened, it doesn't matter whether a fire was deliberate or accidental. If you're facing arson or other charges in the state of New Jersey, the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team is ready to ensure your rights are protected. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or contact us online to learn how we can help.
A Dangerous Display
Dragon's Breath ammo surged in popularity after being featured in the movie John Wick 4. Ammo manufacturers stress that it is only to be used for entertainment purposes and to create visual effects, and it is always used in a controlled environment. Three states have already prohibited the manufacture, purchase, or possession of this ammo, and it is illegal in at least 10 more states, including New Jersey.
The ammo's incendiary material burns at over 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit, easily igniting any flammable material it comes into contact with. While the visual effects of Dragon's Breath ammunition may be stunning, it's clearly dangerous to use outside of extremely controlled environments.
Combine this with environmental conditions in New Jersey, which has seen a number of wildfires in 2024, and it is amazing that the so-called Shotgun Fire didn't cause more damage than it did. There have been so many fires recently that the state is dealing with air quality so poor that many homeowners are even reporting alerts from their carbon monoxide detectors.
Defend Your Rights
Wildfires are no trivial thing, but when drought has turned everything into a tinderbox, it's all too easy to inadvertently spark dangerous conditions. Don't let such an accident lead to your loss of freedom.
If you're facing arson charges in the state of New Jersey, the Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team is your best ally. We'll approach your case using our client-centered approach to create your personalized legal strategy. We'll relentlessly pursue your defense by gathering evidence, collecting testimony, and presenting a strong and persuasive case in court. And most importantly, we'll be by your side every step of the way. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or contact us online to start defending your rights!
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