A traditional Cretan celebration in a large settlement within the Municipality of Heraklion came to an abrupt end after a 26-year-old man, who is also the president of the area’s Cultural Association, was arrested following a shooting incident.

According to reports from Cretalive, the event was attended by approximately 2,000 people. Late in the evening, the 26-year-old allegedly began firing a 9mm pistol into the air. The incident caused significant alarm among attendees, prompting the musician performing at the event to immediately stop the program, while many guests left the venue.

Police arrested the man under Greece’s summary arrest procedure. Authorities are preparing a felony-level case against him under recently strengthened laws regarding the carrying and use of firearms.

Reports indicate that the suspect holds a permit through a shooting sports club. However, the permit reportedly does not authorize him to transport or possess the firearm at the event venue.

Police officers subsequently conducted a search of his residence. According to reports, they discovered and seized various items, including a pistol and several knives.

His parents and brother were also arrested as part of the legal procedures that are typically followed in such cases involving firearms.

The 26-year-old reportedly says he is devastated by the outcome and claims that he did not intend to fire celebratory gunshots as part of the festivities. According to his account, he noticed an incident—currently under investigation—and fired warning shots into the air in an effort to prevent what he believed could have escalated into a more serious confrontation.

The exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation by the relevant authorities.