VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – A 17-year-old from Chesapeake was arrested Saturday night after officers conducting proactive patrols near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront found a concealed firearm during a traffic stop, according to the Virginia Beach Police Department.

Police said officers were patrolling the 2100 block of Atlantic Avenue at approximately 11 p.m. when they stopped a vehicle displaying an improper tag. During the stop, officers observed several juveniles inside the vehicle with illegally possessed vapes in plain view, prompting a further investigation.

According to investigators, the front-seat passenger, identified only as a 17-year-old male from Chesapeake, was found to be carrying a firearm.

The juvenile was taken into custody and charged with possession of a firearm by an underage individual, carrying a concealed weapon, and violating the city’s curfew ordinance.

The Virginia Beach Police Department said the arrest reflects what it described as a growing concern over the increasing number of concealed weapons being found in the possession of juveniles.

The investigation remains active and is being handled by the department’s Second Precinct. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Virginia Beach Police Department at (757) 385-2700 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Solvers at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or P3Tips.com.

The charges are allegations, and the juvenile is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.