May 19, 2025 – West Springfield, Massachusetts – Thirty-four firearms and a significant quantity of ammunition were safely and anonymously collected during Hampden County’s annual gun buyback event, hosted by the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, Baystate Health, and the West Springfield Police Department on Saturday, May 17.

Held at West Springfield Town Hall, the event offered residents a secure opportunity to dispose of unwanted guns and ammunition, no questions asked. The firearms collected will be safely destroyed, keeping them out of circulation and reducing the potential for gun-related accidents, theft, or misuse.

“Each gun turned in represents a potentially life-saving decision,” said Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni. “Whether it’s a firearm that a family no longer feels safe keeping, or one that’s simply no longer wanted, removing these weapons from homes and our streets helps prevent tragedies before they happen.”

The initiative is part of a broader violence prevention strategy supported by public health data showing that access to firearms significantly increases the risk of suicide and unintentional injuries. Organizers emphasized the importance of creating safe and judgement-free opportunities for community members to make responsible choices about gun ownership.

The buyback event is one component of the Hampden District Attorney’s Office’s ongoing efforts to reduce gun violence and improve public safety. These efforts include community-based prevention and intervention programs, youth engagement initiatives, and partnerships with local law enforcement, schools, and health care providers.

Participants received gift cards to Big Y in exchange for their firearms and ammunition – $50 for a handgun, rifle, or shotgun, and $100 for an assault weapon.

This annual event is a continued partnership between the Hampden District Attorney’s Office and Baystate Health.