INDIANAPOLIS — Police said they arrested a 15-year-old boy with a rifle in downtown Indianapolis on Saturday.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department said officers responded to a call reporting a disturbance involving multiple juveniles near S. Illinois St. and W. Maryland St. Police also received a report that one of the juveniles had a rifle.

As officers approached, a 15-year-old ran and eluded them, said IMPD. Using a public safety camera, other officers provided updates on the teenager’s location. Police said they found the teen between vehicles in a parking garage and detained him without further incident.

“This could’ve been a shooting,” said officer William Young. “This could’ve ended in multiple people being injured, including the suspect himself.”

Despite the fact that a teenager was in possession of such a deadly weapon, police said the situation had the best outcome possible. 

Young credited its public safety cameras which are monitored in real-time.

“This particular incident is a prime example as to why we need those particular cameras,” Young said.

IMPD added that the rifle was found under a vehicle near the 15-year-old. A magazine that fit the rifle was in the teen’s possession, along with some marijuana, noted police.

Both police and youth advocates said what occurred is a prime example of what happens when kids are allowed to do whatever they want and it ultimately falls back on the parents.

“I’m just pleading to parents to be more involved in the lives of your children and help them to make good decisions and choices in life,” said Rev. Malachi Walker, who runs a camp that aims to keep teens out of trouble.

The 15-year-old was arrested for dangerous possession of a firearm and possession of marijuana. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will make the final decision on charges.