MERRIMACK — Two local men are accused of firing shots across the Merrimack River, nearly hitting a Hudson man who was metal detecting on the riverbank in Litchfield.

Jonathan M. Chaput, 32, of 5C Woodbury St., and Brandon Gallant, 27, of 4A Woodbury St., are each charged with one count of reckless conduct, a class B felony.

The incident happened just before 3 p.m. at the Griffin Street boat ramp.

According to a news release, the men were shooting several weapons — a handgun and two long guns — in the direction of the man with the metal detector who was on the opposite side of the river. Police said Chaput had been drinking.

The Hudson man told police he was nearly hit by what appeared to be stray bird shot and heavier caliber bullets coming through the trees along the river.

What’s next: Both Chaput and Gallant will be arraigned Nov. 6 in 9th Circuit Court, Merrimack District Division.