A recent report of a gun outside a Chilliwack apartment building brought an immediate response from local RCMP.
The gun turned out to be fake, but the outcome from the Jan. 13 incident still could have ended badly.
Police have no way of knowing if a weapon reported by the public is real or not. They rightly respond as if it is real, given the potential consequences of a mistake.
Within minutes of last week’s incident multiple police units were on scene. The area was cordoned off and the two “suspects” were splayed on the ground.
Police moved cautiously, ensuring each member was sufficiently backed up before approaching.
Their caution, sadly, is warranted. Gun violence has become an increasing norm in our society, with more than 10 police officers shot to death in the past decade. Compounding the concern last week was the fact there had been gunfire on that street just a few days earlier.
Their response, therefore, was rapid – which creates its own risks. Every time a police vehicle speeds to a scene, there is potential for harm, and valuable police resources are diverted from where they may be more needed.
Replica guns are currently banned in Canada. But the definition leaves plenty of leeway for weapons that look real, but aren’t. In fact, manufacturers often strive to ensure air guns look as authentic as possible.
Consequently they’re often the weapon of choice for grocery store hold ups and petty thefts. And while the guns may not be real, their impact on their victims can still be devastating.
The outcome can also be deadly. Police responded to last week’s incident with weapons drawn, including assault rifles. Training and discipline preventing anything more serious happening. But the potential was there.
Guns – even fake guns – are not toys, and their use is not a game.