Water gun resembling Glock firearm seized from group of Chestermere youth, prompts RCMP warning

Police in Chestermere are reminding youth and parents of the serious public safety risks and potential legal consequences associated with replica firearms after a close call involving teenagers last week.

RCMP in the city responded to a firearms complaint on Jan. 8 that involved several youth, investigators say.

Police were able to safely seize a replica handgun that looked nearly identical to a Glock-style firearm.

It turned out to be a water gun.

“The imitation handgun was visually indistinguishable from a real firearm,” RCMP add.

The police service says firearms calls are treated as a top public safety priority by police. When officers respond to a call of that sort, they must assume the weapon is real.

It continues to say that the presence of a replica or imitation firearm can place the person in possession of it, members of the public, and responding officers at risk.

“This incident could have had very serious consequences,” said Staff Sgt. Kathy Klassen, Detachment Commander of the Chestermere RCMP. “Replica firearms look real, and officers have no way of knowing otherwise when responding to a call. Youth and their parents need to understand that carrying or displaying these items in public can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation.”

Chestermere RCMP say officers exercised due diligence during the response. The youth involved in the incident were educated on the risks and potential consequences associated with imitation guns.

“Parents play an important role in preventing incidents like this,” added Klassen. “We encourage families to have open conversations about replica guns and to ensure these items are not taken into public spaces.”

Police are reminding the public that replica firearms, including airsoft, pellet, BB, or toy guns designed to resemble real firearms, may result in seizure, criminal charges, or other enforcement action depending on the circumstances.

“Public awareness and early education are key to preventing tragic outcomes,” RCMP say.

Anyone with information or questions related to public safety concerns is encouraged to contact their local RCMP detachment.