Replica handgun disrupts transit, draws major police response near New Westminster SkyTrain Station, police say

A man carrying what appeared to be a handgun near New Westminster SkyTrain Station Tuesday evening prompted a large police response before officers determined the weapon was a replica firearm. (New Westminster Police Department)

A man carrying what appeared to be a handgun near New Westminster SkyTrain Station Tuesday evening prompted a large police response before officers determined the weapon was a replica firearm.

In a news release Wednesday, the New Westminster Police Department said the incident unfolded around 8:15 p.m., when someone noticed a man with what they believed to be a handgun in the parking garage at 800 Carnarvon Street.

Police said officers contained the area and the man was safely taken into custody. Investigators later determined he was carrying a holstered replica gun and magazines.

Authorities said the man was then taken to hospital to be treated for existing injuries before being released with several firearm-related conditions.

“The incident caused a temporary disruption to the area, including the transit system. Police would like to thank the public for their patience while this matter was being resolved,” Sgt. Andrew Leaver said in the release. “These types of incidents are extremely dynamic and measures were put in place to make sure that the public were kept safe as the event unfolded.”

Leaver went on to thank numerous partners who assisted in the investigation, including the Metro Vancouver Transit Police, RCMP Integrated Police Dog Services and Burnaby RCMP.

“These replicas look extremely realistic and being in possession of them can have serious consequences,” said Leaver. “For the safety of our communities, the New Westminster Police Department strongly discourages the purchase and use of these items.”