ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- With the hope of reducing gun violence, there was a gun buyback event in the City of Elmira on Thursday evening.

In total, 68 firearms were surrendered: 23 long guns, including an AK-47 style rifle, and 44 handguns. EPD says multiple high capacity magazines were also received. The buyback allowed anyone to bring back any unwanted, forgotten, or neglected guns, and get a pre-paid gift card in exchange.

The event was held at the City of Lights Church, right across the street from EPD. It was the first time an event like this was held in the City of Elmira.

Elmira Police Chief Anthony Alvernaz said, "From a community standpoint, the fact that we're able to pretty much do an interdiction of these weapons, prior to them getting onto the streets, I think it's extremely important to the community."

The Elmira Police Department said the weapons will be checked to see if they were stolen or used in a crime. The results of the check will be announced at a later time.

The buyback event was held in collaboration with the New York State Attorney General's Office. EPD says they will look into possibly holding another gun buyback in the spring.