Gun buyback events in two cities

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- In the wake of the Newtown tragedy, towns and cities across the state are hosting gun buybacks to get guns off the streets.

We are witnessing two different aspects to the purchasing and surrendering of guns following the Newtown tragedy.  Gun stores across the country, including here in Connecticut, have reported brisk sales of firearms as some customers fear certain models will become illegal when gun control is debated in Congress.

Then there is the other side to this - those turning their guns back in.

Bridgeport, Connecticut's biggest city, has been active with a gun buyback program. The first day of the city's largest gun buyback netted 104 weapons. It continues today and again Saturday at the Bridgeport Police Department's Community Services Division at 1395 Sylvan Avenue.

Police are offering $200 for a working handgun and $75 for a rifle. Police paid more than $13,000 last week.

In New Haven, a gun buyback last week gathered 65 weapons, including a Bushmaster .223 semi-automatic rifle, similar to the one used in the Newtown shootings. Officials say there were five assault weapons that were dropped off.

New Haven plans to host another event Saturday sponsored by the "Injury Free Coalition for Kids.  If anyone wishes to drop off their gun, the event will be held at the New Haven Police Academy on Sherman Avenue.  A $50 gift card will be presented to those who drop off a working gun.

Funding for the program comes from Yale-New Haven Hospital along with private donations.

All guns must be unloaded.