Salina Police Investigate Juvenile Altercation After Gun Reported in 700 Block of Max

Salina Police are investigating an incident involving several juveniles after officers were dispatched just before 5 p.m. on Friday to the 700 block of Max.

The call originated from reports of a juvenile fight in which a firearm was displayed. The individuals involved left the area in an older red Ford pickup, a vehicle officers recognized and were able to track.

According to police, the incident began as an online dispute between a 16-year-old male and a 17-year-old male, which escalated into an invitation to fight. The 17-year-old arrived at the 700 block of Max with others, including 18-year-old De Saun Hassler. During a verbal confrontation, Hassler allegedly produced and pointed a handgun. No physical fight occurred at the scene, and the group then returned to the 2300 block of Quincy, where they reside.

An officer arriving at that location saw four individuals—ages 18, 17, 16, and 14—exit the pickup and enter the residence. All were secured and taken to the police department. Both the vehicle and residence were held pending a search warrant, which was executed later that evening. Officers located a handgun and marijuana with paraphernalia in the 17-year-old’s bedroom.

The 17-year-old was charged with possession of marijuana and paraphernalia and later released to his parents. Hassler was charged with aggravated assault, contributing to a child’s misconduct, and disorderly conduct. He was booked into the Saline County Jail.

Investigators confirmed the 17- and 18-year-olds involved are relatives.

The investigation remains ongoing. Police are working to verify the type and ownership of the handgun and determine whether additional charges will be filed against the 14- and 16-year-olds.