Hailey
A 19-year-old Dayton man, Dylan Hiner, has pleaded guilty in federal court after firing a gun during a Halloween party at the University of Dayton. This incident has raised serious safety concerns on campus and highlights the consequences of illegal gun possession.
What Happened at the University of Dayton?
On November 1, 2025, Hiner attended a Halloween party at the University of Dayton. During the party, he fired multiple rounds into the air, causing panic among students and party-goers.
Authorities from both the Dayton Police Department and University of Dayton Police Department quickly responded to the scene. They found several rounds of ammunition and reviewed home surveillance footage that confirmed Hiner’s actions.
Federal Charges Against Hiner
Hiner was already facing charges in Montgomery County for allegedly carrying a concealed weapon and improperly handling a firearm in a motor vehicle. On November 10, 2025, he was federally charged for illegally receiving a firearm or ammunition while under indictment for a felony.
This is a serious crime that can carry a prison sentence of up to five years.
| Date | Event | Authorities Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 1, 2025 | Halloween party shootout | Dayton Police, University of Dayton Police |
| Nov 10, 2025 | Federal charges filed | U.S. Attorney’s Office, ATF |
| 2026 | Guilty plea entered | U.S. District Court |
Officials Announce the Guilty Plea
The guilty plea was officially announced by:
- Dominick S. Gerace II, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio
- Jorge Rosendo, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF
- Kamran Afzal, Dayton Police Chief
- Steve Durian, University of Dayton Police Chief
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Saunders is representing the United States in this case.
Understanding the Crime
Illegally receiving a firearm or ammunition while under indictment for a felony is taken very seriously by federal authorities. The law aims to prevent individuals already facing serious charges from accessing weapons, which could increase the risk of violence.
Violating this law can result in:
- Prison time up to five years
- Heavy fines
- Long-term criminal record
Why Campus Safety Matters
Incidents like this highlight the need for strong campus safety measures. Universities and local law enforcement work together to:
- Monitor suspicious activities
- Respond quickly to emergencies
- Educate students about legal consequences of firearm possession
Ensuring safety is critical, especially during large events like Halloween parties where crowds gather and tensions can rise.
The guilty plea of Dylan Hiner serves as a reminder that illegal gun possession has serious consequences. Federal and local authorities are working to maintain safe environments on campus, and anyone under indictment must understand the severe penalties for breaking the law.
Students and community members should stay alert, report suspicious activity, and prioritize safety during public events.