Authentic-looking pellet gun causes a panic
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Updated: September 15, 2009 6:09 PM
Police confiscated two pellet guns Saturday evening after a concerned neighbour reported four men firing a rifle from the back deck of a nearby home.
A number of officers responded around 7:30 p.m. to Pomona Way in Gordon Head and found the four young males watching from the deck.
One recently-purchased pellet gun, which was put between a mattress and a box spring, was handed over to police. Another gun was revealed to have been hidden in a kitchen cupboard.
Officers spoke with the men, who initially were confused about the fuss surrounding their target practice, and the two guns were willingly turned over to police for destruction. The men were shooting the pellet guns into a yard below.
"In this particular case, the young men were firing a very real looking rifle in a quiet neighbourhood," said Sgt. John Price of the Saanich Police. He said this, combined with the consumption of beer, could've resulted in a much more serious situation.
"Pellet guns are just as deadly as real guns. They look the same, feel the same and perform the same function.”
Pellet guns are also becoming more frequently used during crimes, to threaten or intimidate, or for self defense, Price said.
Saanich Bylaw prohibits the discharge of firearms within the municipality, and could result in a minimum fine of $100.
"If you own or plan on owning a pellet gun, take the time to learn how to properly and safely handle it, transport it and store it," Price said. "Treat it like any other gun and keep yourself and others safe."
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