Residents and businesses around parts of Utica were once again reminded how quickly situations can turn dangerous after police described a scene involving panic, fighting, and an alleged firearm discharge inside an establishment on Bleeker Street.

According to Utica Police, officers were already outside the location near 222 Bleeker Street around 1:10AM on May 9th when they reportedly heard what sounded like a gunshot from inside the building. Police stated that officers immediately entered the establishment and observed multiple people attempting to flee while others were allegedly fighting on the ground. Security staff reportedly informed officers that a shot had been fired and that they had managed to disarm the individual involved by pushing the firearm behind the bar area.

Police say officers recovered a loaded Glock 9mm handgun and secured the scene while conducting a safety sweep to ensure nobody had been injured. Investigators later reviewed surveillance footage and officer body camera footage, which they say helped positively identify the suspect. Authorities allege the suspect had rushed past security while brandishing the handgun in an attempt to confront another male before security intervened and disarmed him after the shot was fired.

According to police, investigators with the Utica Police GIVE Unit, along with members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force and the Ilion Police Department, later located the suspect in Ilion on May 12th. Police say the suspect allegedly fought with officers while being taken into custody before eventually being handcuffed.

Police identified the suspect as Antar Handy, 36, of Utica. Authorities say he has been charged with:

  • Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree
  • Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (x2)
  • Criminal Possession of a Firearm
  • Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree
  • Police also stated that additional charges may still be filed as the investigation continues.

Incidents involving alleged gunfire inside public establishments continue raising concerns throughout local communities, especially for families, employees, and customers who may have been nearby during the incident. Many residents are asking how situations like this continue happening and whether more security measures are needed in nightlife areas across the region.

We will continue following this story as additional information becomes available. Anyone with verified information can contact TVOTT Hillbilly News. Please avoid posting threats, personal information, or unverified accusations in the comments.

DISCLAIMER All suspects are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. TVOTT Hillbilly News reports information based on police statements, public records, scanner traffic, and other verified sources available at the time of publication. Charges may later be reduced, modified, or dismissed. Please keep comments respectful and avoid posting threats, personal information, or unverified accusations.