Police say they arrested a man after a loaded handgun was found inside a Long Beach movie theater Thursday.

Authorities say the gun was found by two young girls at Long Beach Cinema 4.

Police say John Abatz, of Oceanside, came to see a movie with his grandchildren on Tuesday. They say he also brought a loaded .22-caliber Beretta pistol with him.

News 12 Long Island was told that the gun fell out of his ankle holster during a children's movie. Police say the 66-year-old knew he lost it, but didn't notify authorities right away.

Police say the two girls - ages 9 and 10 - spotted the gun on the floor and told a manager at the theater.

Officials say they ran the serial number on the weapon, which identified Abatz as the owner. An announcement was then made in the theater for Abatz to come out into the lobby, where he was arrested on a charge of reckless endangerment.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge and is due back in court next month.