BCHP Kelowna seizes replica firearm and stolen property

Kelowna, B.C., Southeast District, Traffic Patrol, BC Highway Patrol

2023-04-20 10:30 PDT

File # BCHP Kelowna 2023-1437

BCHP Kelowna Seizes Replica Firearm and Stolen Property, Driver Faces Multiple Charges

On April 19, 2023 at approximately 12:00pm, an alert officer with BC Highway Patrol Kelowna was traveling on Highway 97 Northbound near Old Vernon Rd when he noticed that the driver of an older model Jeep Compass was distracted by repeatedly staring down in the direction of his lap.

The officer stopped the vehicle and upon approach, noticed what appeared to be a hand gun in the centre console area. The officer drew his service pistol and arrested the driver, a local man in his 30’s who is known to police, for weapons possession under the Criminal Code.
Photo of centre console, pistol partially visible in front of air horn

The driver, who was the lone occupant of the vehicle, complied with the officer and was taken into custody without incident. A further search of the vehicle revealed stolen property including various identification, mail box keys, and break-in tools. The pistol was later determined to be a replica ‘airsoft’ hand gun, designed specifically in appearance to resemble a real hand gun.

This was an extremely tense situation states Cst. Bevan of BC Highway Patrol Kelowna. This firearm was designed and was being used specifically to mimic the real thing. I would like to thank all of the nearby motorists for their co-operation and their adherence to safety during this incident.

The man, who was also determined to be prohibited from driving, has been charged with multiple offences under both the BC Motor Vehicle Act and Criminal Code. He has been released on an Appearance Notice to attend Court in June and the vehicle was impounded for 7 days.
BC Highway Patrol