Police have confirmed finding a weapon at the home of a man arrested for multiple shooting incidents on Tjøme island. Officers discovered an air pistol stored in a gun cabinet during a search of the suspect's residence.
The shooting events occurred several times during October on Østveien road near the Coop Extra supermarket. Authorities arrested a man in his thirties on November 5 in connection with the case.
Police Inspector Magnar Pedersen stated that investigators seized the weapon during their search. The air pistol will be sent to the National Criminal Investigation Service for examination next week.
This case highlights Norway's strict firearm regulations. All gun owners must store weapons in approved locked cabinets when not in use. The country maintains some of Europe's toughest gun laws despite high ownership rates for hunting and sports.
The Tjøme incidents represent a rare occurrence of public shooting threats in Norway. Most gun crimes involve illegal weapons rather than registered firearms. The island community typically experiences very low crime rates.
Norwegian police treat all shooting threats seriously regardless of weapon type. Air pistols can cause serious injury at close range and create public fear. The suspect faces potential charges of endangerment and illegal weapon use.
Local residents expressed relief about the arrest after weeks of concern. The Østveien area serves as a main thoroughfare with regular pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Business owners near the Coop Extra reported decreased customer visits during the shooting period.
Police continue investigating whether the suspect acted alone. They examine possible motives and any connection to other local incidents. The thorough investigation reflects Norway's methodical approach to gun-related crimes.
What consequences might the suspect face if convicted? Norwegian courts typically impose strict penalties for public endangerment with weapons. The case will likely proceed through the district court system in coming months.
The incident serves as a reminder that even peaceful communities can experience unexpected security threats. Norway's efficient police response demonstrates the country's well-organized law enforcement capabilities.