Film students caused a panic on a California freeway Sunday after at least 10 drivers reported two men standing on a pedestrian overpass carrying assault-type rifles, which turned out to be props, authorities said.
The two students were arrested on suspicion of displaying replica firearms and causing a false emergency.
Around 5 p.m., drivers on the 101 Freeway began calling in to report that two men dressed in military fatigues were carrying rifles on the Chesebro Road pedestrian overpass.
At least 10 of the drivers called 911, saying they felt threatened that the pair were going to cause harm.
California Highway Patrol and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Station, including a helicopter, immediately responded to the 101 Freeway and found the two.
CHP shut down the freeway.
Over the loud speaker, officers instructed the pair to walk with their hands up toward the officers.
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The two had a replica assault rifle, replica handgun, military uniforms, cameras and a gas mask.
The pair explained they were filming for a school project.
"While the intentions of these two individuals might have been harmless, the fact that anyone would appear in a public place displaying a replica firearm is troubling," Capt. Patrick S. Davoren of the Lost Hills Sheriff's Station, said in a statement. "These two men put themselves and our community at risk. This does reflect the fast actions of our community in notifying law enforcement and reminds everyone that if they see something, they should say something."
