Police warn of ‘replica gun' sightings during annual high school competition
It's that time of year where students all across the region rally up for the 'Senior Assassin' game.
A targeted competition that involves students competing to eliminate fellow participants by shooting them with water guns, gel projectiles or foam darts.
York Regional Police (YRP) is warning the community that many replica firearms look identical to real-life guns. This concern came to the forefront after five reports of youths were spotted carrying what appeared to be firearms.
'Police responding to these weapons calls are often in the position of having to make quick decisions regarding whether the weapon is real, a toy or a replica, which could have significant consequences.' YRP shared in a release. 'Citizens should be aware that when police respond to any call involving a firearm, it is treated as legitimate until an investigation can determine otherwise.'
In light of this, police remind the public:
Police-involved shootings have occurred where the firearm is later determined to have been a replica and the officer has been found to be justified in their actions
There is often no way to tell if the weapon is real prior to investigation
Replica firearms, air guns, gel guns or toy guns used in the commission of another offence are considered legitimate weapons and those responsible will face significant criminal charges
If you damage property or injure a person or animal by discharging an air gun, you could be subject to criminal charges in addition to civil liability
For the safety of our community, police strongly discourage the use of these items in our region.
To report a possible emergency related to firearms, call 9-1-1. Call 1-866-876-5423, ext.7008 for non-emergencies.
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