SEDGWICK COUNTY - Law enforcement recovered nine firearms, including one stolen handgun, after responding to a large teen party at a short-term rental late Monday night, according to a media release from Wichita Police.
At approximately 11:16 p.m. on June 8, officers were dispatched to a disturbance involving weapons at a residence in the 11300 block of West Bekemeyer. The reporting party advised that a fight had broken out at the gathering and that multiple individuals were armed. The caller estimated that 50 to 60 people were attending the party.
As officers arrived in the area, they encountered numerous teenagers leaving the residence. Several individuals were found to be intoxicated, and three minors were arrested for possession or consumption of alcohol. Officers identified 33 attendees ranging in age from 16 to 21 years old.
The homeowner, who was cooperative and had no knowledge of the party, later responded to the scene and removed the individuals who had organized the party from the property. During a subsequent search of the residence, officers located nine firearms. One of the firearms had been reported stolen during a Wichita burglary reported on Feb. 18, 2026.
The investigation remains ongoing.
The incident demonstrates the importance of the Wichita Police Department’s ongoing efforts to identify and intervene in large gatherings before they escalate into violence. Throughout the summer, the department will continue working proactively with law enforcement partners to prevent violent crime and enhance public safety.
“Too often, we see gatherings like this end in tragedy,” Chief Joe Sullivan said. “Across the country, and here in Wichita, large parties involving alcohol, firearms and young people have turned deadly in a matter of seconds. Our officers took nine guns out of an environment where emotions were high, and a fight had already occurred. That intervention may have prevented someone from being seriously injured or killed.”
“Keeping our community safe requires all of us working together. Parents need to know where their children are, who they are spending time with, and what environments they are entering. We will continue to take a proactive approach to preventing violence, and we will hold those who choose to bring weapons and violence into our neighborhoods accountable. Every resident deserves to enjoy the summer safely, and the Wichita Police Department remains committed to making that happen.”