When eyewitnesses thought that a pedestrian was carrying a small gun, Lloydminster RCMP had to investigate.
On Mar. 11 around 3:45 p.m., police were called to an area near 56 Avenue and 31 Street in Lloydminster, where a pedestrian was heading north with what appeared to be a small firearm. That area is between Rendell Park and Bishop Lloyd Schools.
Lloydminster General Investigation Services was called in as police wanted to ensure public safety.
Police found the pedestrian and realized that it was a torch-lighter.
Lloydminster RCMP remind everyone that while there are many items available for purchase that may seem harmless, if you choose to wave it around or hold objects that appear to be a firearm or any other type of weapon, RCMP will treat this seriously.
Police ask that such products not be displayed in public or near parks and schools.
Noting that perceptions mean a great deal, the police say when they are called to a matter like this, they have very little time -if any- to decide whether what the person has is real or not.
If you are approached by RCMP about having a potential weapon, understand that police will treat this very seriously and ultimately, they are looking to reduce risk to the public, themselves, and the person.
Please follow police instructions and stay calm, add RCMP.
Lloydminster RCMP thank the public for their patience during this investigation.
