In a startling incident over the weekend, a 58-year-old man from Maryland found himself in police custody after allegedly brandishing a firearm at a group of young Christmas carolers. The children, all 12 years old, were simply spreading holiday joy when their festive evening took a frightening turn.

The man, identified as Paul Brian Susie, now faces multiple charges, including assault. According to the Anne Arundel County Police, a .40 caliber Glock handgun was recovered during the investigation, which Susie reportedly used during the encounter.

As reported by WTOP, the group of three girls was out in the neighborhood singing Christmas carols around 8:30 p.m. on Saturday. Upon knocking at Susie’s door to share their songs, they were met not with holiday warmth but with a gun pointed at them through a bay window.

Details from the charging documents indicate that the front stoop was well-lit, clearly illuminating the children, making it evident to Susie who he was confronting with the firearm.

According to Anne Arundel County Police, the mother of one of the carolers alerted authorities after learning of the incident from her daughter and her friends.

Upon arrival, police discovered that Susie had been drinking and he confessed to the incident. The Glock, which was secured in a gun safe, was legally owned by Susie, but it was loaded at the time of recovery.

In addition to assault, Susie was charged with handling a weapon while under the influence.