Police find AR‑15‑style rifle in hotel room after stopping stolen truck
Posted Sep 21, 2026 4:13 pm.
A man is facing charges after police found a loaded rifle and other weapons during a late‑night traffic stop outside a Calgary hotel.
Calgary police say the investigation began when officers stopped a truck parked outside the Red Carpet Inn on 16 Avenue NW around 11 p.m. on Friday.
The licence plate didn’t match the vehicle, according to police, and the driver didn’t have a valid licence. Police determined the truck was stolen and arrested the man.
Officers then searched his hotel room and found a loaded AR‑15‑style rifle with the serial number removed, several magazines, a suppressor, ammunition, and multiple cell phones.
Matthew Randel Lynden Smith, 35, is facing nine gun‑related charges, including unsafe storage of a firearm and possession of a firearm while prohibited. He is also charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000 and five counts of failing to comply with conditions.
Smith remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 403‑266‑1234. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers.
