Edmonton Police Warn of Teen Waving Fake Gun at WEM

Edmonton Police Service is alerting the public following a recent incident involving a teenager waving a fake gun at West Edmonton Mall (WEM) on Monday evening. Police received a report about the incident around 8:20 PM, which raised significant safety concerns.

Details of the Incident

Witnesses reported seeing a teen brandishing what appeared to be a firearm and pointing it at another individual within the mall premises. Mall security promptly intervened and monitored the situation until police arrived. Subsequently, officers took the 15-year-old into custody and discovered that the weapon was, in fact, a toy.

Warning from Edmonton Police

In a statement on social media, the Edmonton Police emphasized the seriousness of the situation. They noted, “This was a potentially very dangerous situation.” They highlighted a critical point: law enforcement cannot immediately distinguish between real and fake firearms.

Realism of Imitation Guns

The police warning detailed the dangers associated with imitation guns, which can closely resemble actual firearms. These include:

• Airsoft guns
• BB or pellet guns
• Replica or prop firearms
• Paintball guns
• Novelty or toy guns

Due to their realistic appearance, it is nearly impossible for officers to determine the authenticity of a weapon at first glance.

Safety Precautions

Edmonton Police Service urged the public to treat all firearm reports as serious. They reassured that officers would respond promptly with the necessary resources and tactics. “If it looks like a gun, it will be treated like a gun,” the statement warned.

The department advises the community to adhere to specific safety guidelines:

• Never play with imitation guns in public spaces such as malls, parks, or schools.
• Use air gun imitations only at designated areas like gun ranges or private properties beyond city limits.
• Do not point imitation guns at others, even as a joke.

Moreover, it is essential for parents to set clear rules for children regarding the risks associated with imitation firearms. In case of an encounter with police while carrying an imitation gun, individuals should immediately put it down and comply with officers’ instructions.

This cautionary message from the Edmonton Police Service underscores the importance of safety and the potential consequences of misunderstanding temporary situations involving imitation firearms.