Jess Phillip Reid allegedly armed himself with rifle in Maroochydore

Residents say they heard shots being fired in a Sunshine Coast street after a Maroochydore man on drugs allegedly armed himself with a rifle on an e-scooter.

A bricklayer who was arrested after allegedly riding an e-scooter armed with a rifle through Maroochydore when residents reported hearing gunshots had his hopes for bail dashed in court.

Jess Phillip Reid faced Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Thursday accused of almost triggering an “armed offender scenario” which led to police crews, including negotiators, swarming the scene after residents reported hearing gunshots.

But duty lawyer Matt Cooper contested the witness statements saying the gun wasn’t loaded with ammunition and no one saw Mr Reid firing the rifle.

Mr Reid, of Maroochydore, was charged with going armed to cause fear and possessing a weapon.

Police alleged the 27-year-old man had been screaming on Camden Way in Maroochydore on Wednesday while riding an e-scooter and holding a Winchester rifle.

Several calls were made to police who quickly arrived at the scene.

Police prosecutor Nick Nitschke said the incident almost turned into an “armed offender scenario” but Mr Reid had surrendered to officers.

Sergeant Nitschke said the situation was classified as high risk and negotiators were deployed to the scene.

The court was told witnesses had heard several “shots fired” during the allegedly frenzied standoff.

Jess Phillip Reid with an e-scooter. Picture: Facebook

Court documents said police searched Mr Reid’s home and allegedly seized rifles and ammunition.

In bail affidavit documents, Mr Reid said he had used drugs including marijuana and amphetamines.

Sergeant Nitschke said Mr Reid who had just moved to Queensland from interstate should remain in custody for the safety of the community and his wellbeing.

Magistrate Graham Hillan denied Mr Reid bail and adjourned his matter until May 26, 2022.