New Westminster, B.C. – A 16-year-old youth was arrested after reports of a firearm sighting near the Columbia SkyTrain Station prompted a swift police response on Thursday evening.
At approximately 8:45 p.m., a 9-1-1 caller reported seeing a youth drop what appeared to be a firearm before tucking it into the waistband of his pants. Officers from the New Westminster Police Department quickly arrived on scene and located a suspect matching the description. The youth was arrested without incident.
Upon further inspection, officers determined the firearm was a replica.
“We’d like to thank the person who called 9-1-1,” said Sergeant Andrew Leaver. “If you ever see anything that causes you concern for the safety of others, we ask that you make the call.”
Police continue to investigate the incident and are reminding the public of the serious risks associated with replica or imitation firearms. Officers emphasized that for safety reasons, all firearm-related calls are treated as legitimate until confirmed otherwise.
The New Westminster Police Department strongly discourages the possession or display of imitation firearms in public spaces, as such actions can lead to dangerous misunderstandings and potential criminal charges.