Cases involving youth use of airsoft guns increasing, Calgary police issue warning

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) is raising the alarm about the safety risks of airsoft guns, after it says it has responded to an unprecedented number of incidents involving youth using the weapons.

CPS says the incidents have involved Calgarians openly carrying and discharging air guns — including pellet and BB guns — in public spaces. This has prompted emergency police responses and in some cases, serious injuries.

Air guns appear very similar to real firearms, especially in dynamic incidents where bystanders, witnesses, and police officers have perceived the weapons to be legitimate firearms, the service explains.

In addition to posing a public safety risk, CPS adds these weapons can cause significant life-altering harm, and using them can have serious consequences, including criminal charges.

On average, CPS says at least one incident officers respond to per day involves an air gun. So far this year, half of all incidents that involved an air gun involved a minor.

In 2024, 817 air guns were seized in Calgary. In the first five months of 2025, 333 air guns were seized, according to police.

“When someone sees what looks like a firearm, the fear and trauma they experience is real, regardless of whether the weapon is,” said Staff Sgt. Chris Tudor of the CPS Firearms Investigative Unit. “These incidents can escalate quickly and will result in a serious response from police officers, who must treat every potential threat as real.”

The police agency says young people are often unaware of the risks and consequences associated with carrying and displaying air guns in public.

“Young people may not fully understand how serious the consequences can be,” said Staff Sgt. Sarah Roe of the Youth Education Unit. “These weapons are not toys and what may seem like a game or a prank can quickly escalate to a very serious situation. We’re working closely with schools and families to help educate youth about these risks.”

Earlier this month, Calgary police responded to eight incidents involving youth and air guns in a single day. In these cases, the weapons were discharged at people and vehicles, used in a carjacking, and used to intimidate and threaten others.

CPS says although these weapons aren’t regulated and can be purchased freely, discharging one within city limits is illegal.

Police recommend parents have a conversation with their kids or youth in their community about the risks of using air guns, including legal and safety risks.

Other important reminders include storing air guns securely and out of reach of children, only using air guns in a safe and controlled environment, and not carrying or displaying air guns in public.

Anyone with concerns or information about the unsafe use of air guns is encouraged to report it to police by calling 403-266-1234, or 911 in an emergency.