Two Jemison police officials came under fire Saturday while investigating the discovery of six marijuana plants.

Lt. Marc McMinn and Sgt. Randy Morris located the plants in a partially wooded area in the northwest part of town when they heard the discharge of nearby firearms.

Upon further investigation, McMinn and Morris found two male subjects shooting at cans in a gravel pit. The bullets had apparently ricocheted off the water and accidentally traveled in the direction of the officers.

The two men, ages 23 and 17, were found to be intoxicated, but the incident was totally unrelated to the marijuana. Both were arrested.

“They (McMinn and Morris) came out from cover and identified themselves, and they were able to safely and successfully take the two into custody,” Jemison Chief of Police Shane Fulmer said. “The people had no connection with the marijuana plants and had no idea the officers were out there.”

The adult was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and discharging a firearm within city limits. The juvenile was charged with minor in consumption of alcohol.

Fulmer said Saturday’s incident is a good example of why ordinances prohibiting the discharge of firearms within city limits are needed.

“When you shoot a gun, the bullet’s got to go somewhere. The end is unknown,” he said.

The marijuana case is still under investigation. When the plants were found, it was obvious that they had been watered and cared for, Fulmer said.