A police chief recognized four teenagers by buying them ice cream after they found a handgun lying on the sidewalk and immediately reported it in Wauconda Wednesday.
The Wauconda Police Department recognized four teenagers from Wauconda on Wednesday for their “quick thinking and responsible actions.”
The children were riding their bicycles on Route 176 near the Route 12 underpass, Wauconda Police Department Public Information Officer Heather Cognac said.
They spotted what turned out to be a Colt .25 caliber handgun lying on the sidewalk.
Two of the boys remained at the scene to ensure no one else came into contact with the weapon.
The other two rode their bicycles to the Wauconda Police Department to report the discovery.
Officers responded around 12:15 p.m. and safely recovered the unloaded firearm. It was secured as evidence for further investigation.
Wauconda Police Chief David Wermes praised the teens for their “maturity and courage.”
“The bravery and common sense these young men showed is truly commendable. They turned a potentially dangerous situation into an example of community responsibility,” Wermes said.
Wermes treated the boys to ice cream at Dairy Queen, which he said was a small gesture for a big act of civic duty.
Anyone with information about the handgun is asked to call the Wauconda Police Department at 847-526-2421.