Alberta RCMP Issue Stern Warning: Airsoft Guns Create Real Peril
In the aftermath of the tragic mass school shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, Alberta RCMP are reporting a surge in public calls about individuals carrying what appear to be rifles on streets. However, many of these reports involve airsoft guns—replica firearms that shoot plastic pellets—which police warn can lead to deadly misunderstandings and severe legal consequences.
Recent Arrest Highlights Growing Concern
A recent spate of incidents in Fort Saskatchewan has brought this issue to the forefront. With assistance from a school resource officer and tips from vigilant citizens, Fort Saskatchewan RCMP arrested a 17-year-old boy on February 20. He faces multiple charges, including assault with a weapon, using an imitation firearm during an offence, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and failure to comply with a release order.
Following a judicial interim release hearing, the youth was released from custody and is awaiting his court appearance. This arrest is part of a larger, ongoing investigation into seven reports filed over a single week, with several other youths identified in connection with the case.
Social Media Challenge Fuels Dangerous Behavior
Police have discovered that youths are carrying airsoft guns and shooting each other as part of a social media challenge that has been circulating in Canada for approximately four years. Sharon Roberts, media liaison with Fort Saskatchewan RCMP, emphasized the gravity of the situation.
"We would like to stress that airsoft guns are not regulated like firearms, and firing them in public is both illegal and can cause significant life-altering harm," Roberts stated. "We're getting calls from the public saying, 'There's somebody walking down the street and it looks like they're carrying a rifle.'"
Incidents Occur in Family-Oriented Areas
One of the recent cases occurred on school property, with others taking place in residential areas where families with children frequent. Locations included people walking down the street, two incidents near a spray park, and one at a community gazebo—all spots where parents walk their kids or dogs, heightening public alarm.
Students informed the school resource officer that these fake gun sprees are linked to a widespread social media challenge, which has been appearing on platforms like TikTok for several years. Roberts noted, "We're trying really hard with the education part of it. Hopefully that'll slow it down."
The Danger of Perception: Replicas vs. Real Firearms
Airsoft guns, often known by brand names like Airsoft, are designed to look almost indistinguishable from real firearms. They typically fire non-metallic plastic pellets and have low muzzle energy, making the projectiles less likely to pierce targets when used in controlled gaming environments with protective gear. However, their realistic appearance poses a severe risk in public settings.
RCMP underscore that while these guns shoot modified, less harmful "simunition" or low-power "smoothbore" rounds, they can easily be mistaken for actual weapons. This misperception can lead to panic, police responses, and potentially tragic outcomes, as seen in past incidents where replica guns have resulted in serious injuries or fatalities.
The public is urged to report any suspicious activity but to also be aware of the legal and safety implications of carrying imitation firearms. Education and awareness campaigns are being intensified to curb this dangerous trend and protect communities from unnecessary harm.
