Pottstown residents on alert following alleged BB gun attacks

POTTSTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- Residents in a Pottstown, Pennsylvania, neighborhood say they are alarmed after multiple people reported being struck or nearly struck by BB gun pellets, prompting calls for police to identify who is responsible before someone is seriously injured.

People living near Hanover and Chestnut streets say the incidents have left them on edge.

One incident was reported over the weekend. In a community Facebook group, one alleged victim shared a photo of what was described as the projectile, while others posted accounts of similar encounters.

Residents said a woman was struck on her way to church, another man said his son was hit in the arm, and the person who shared the photo said she was hit in the chest while out for a walk.

Harry Knittle said he narrowly avoided being hit during an encounter a few days ago.

"I wasn't hit, but I know I was shot at because when I felt it and heard it go by my ear, I just stopped and froze," Knittle said.

Lori Knittle said neighbors want police action.

"Hopefully, the police department does something," she said.

Residents said they have contacted police, but it remains unclear how many people may have been affected or how long the alleged shootings have been happening. Concern continues to grow among those who live in the area.

RJ Bennett said the situation could turn dangerous.

"Pellet guns aren't normally too bad, but you know, if you hit somebody in the eye or something, it could be dangerous. You could ruin somebody's life," RJ Bennett said.

Neighbors had no information about who might be responsible, but some believe the shots could be coming from inside a nearby home, while others suspect the person involved may be mobile.

"The little go-go bikes, shoot and keep going," Tara Frederick said.

For now, residents said they are staying alert and being cautious.

"You never know where it's coming from," Bennett said. "Just be cautious when we get out of our cars, unfortunately," Lori Knittle said.

Action News reached out to Pottstown police on Monday but did not hear back.