BOONVILLE — A Town of Lee man was arrested after a loaded handgun was found inside an amusement park ride at the Boonville Oneida County Fair, according to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred July 25, when sheriff’s deputies assigned to the fair responded to a report of a found firearm.
An adult patron entering the ride discovered the loaded handgun and turned it over to law enforcement.
No injuries were reported.
The investigation was handed over to the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Unit after it was determined that firearms were prohibited at the fair, as indicated by posted signs at all entrances.
Authorities identified Keith Ouderkirk, 42, of Lee Center, as the owner of the handgun.
Investigators said Ouderkirk, who holds a valid New York State pistol permit, entered the fair with his firearm and lost it while riding one of the attractions.
Ouderkirk was arrested on Aug. 27 and charged with one count of criminal possession of a firearm, rifle, or shotgun in a sensitive location, a class E felony.
He was processed and issued an appearance ticket returnable to Boonville Town Court at a later date.
