At 10:45PM HRP were notified by security at Saint Mary’s University that they were shown a picture of a person holding, what appeared to be an assault rifle. This person posted the picture on social media. It was believed to be very recent and the background appeared to be a university dormitory room. The suspect lived in Loyola Residence at SMU. Numerous police units attended and evacuated the floor. They were able to clear the floor without incident. The suspect was not located however police were able to locate him at another location and he was taken into custody without incident. After a brief investigation it was learned that the assault rifle was a paintball gun. Officers with the General Investigative Section are following up with the investigation.
HRP would like to remind people not to post pictures of themselves with firearms or guns that appear to be actual firearms. Police have to treat these investigations as if they were firearms which could potentially lead to dangerous situations. It also ties up police resources and could result in various charges for the person posting the pictures.
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Source: Media Release