ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - A weekend gun buyback event in Albany drew a larger turnout than expected, taking more than 140 firearms off the streets, according to police.

Albany Police Chief Michael Persley said the department prepared to collect about 100 guns but received 142, ultimately running out of gift cards meant for participants. Persley said the strong response reflects the community’s willingness to help improve public safety.

“You know if one person comes, that’s one person — they have a concern, they have a care, even if it’s monetary,” Persley said. “So, whenever we can pull off any kind of community event and get the feedback that we got from that, then that was a good event.”

Police are asking anyone who turned in a gun but did not receive a gift card to contact the department to ensure they get one.

The buyback was held alongside a prescription “pill drop,” where officers collected 21 pounds of unused or expired medication.

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