Following a recent incident, Red Deer RCMP are reminding youth and parents of the serious public safety risks and potential legal consequences associated with replica and imitation firearms.

On March 22, 2026, at 2:04 p.m., Red Deer RCMP responded to a firearms-related complaint in the park at Koinonia Christian School in Riverside Meadows in Red Deer, Alta.

Multiple police members arrived quicky and found multiple youth in a park with toy firearms. The replica guns were battery operated and were being used to shoot gel-blaster- balls. From a distance, the firearms were easily mistaken for real firearms.

The youth involved were compliant with police and no one was harmed during this interaction with police.

RCMP officers in attendance spoke with the youth, who realized the severity of the police response.

Red Deer RCMP remind the public that replica firearms, including airsoft, pellet, BB or toy guns designed to resemble real firearms, may result in seizure, criminal charges or other enforcement action depending on the circumstances. Public awareness and early education are key to preventing tragic outcomes.

Parents play an important role in education and prevention. Toy and replica firearms that are indistinguishable from real firearms can create heightened fear. When replica firearms are present, the individuals in possession, members of the public and responding officers are placed at significant risk.

If you have any information regarding crime within Red Deer, please contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.comor by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.