One recent evening, security from a convenience store near Abbott and E. Pender watched a man walk around the store and then engage in an argument with a customer waiting in line to pay. They could clearly see a gun tucked into the man’s waistband, and he appeared to be using it an intimidation tactic. The security guard called 9-1-1 as the suspect left the store, giving his description and his direction of travel.
Officers flooded the area, looking for a man based on the description provided. They found him waiting in line and about to enter a neighbourhood bar only half a block from the convenience store. Knowing the bar was full of patrons and the potential risk to their safety, the officers ran into the bar. They quickly located the suspect and he was arrested without incident.
The large black revolver was located still tucked into the man’s waistband, with the handle of the gun sticking out. The officers determined it was a replica – a pellet gun with a bullet cartridge. They also found a speed re-loader and pellets, as well as a spare co2 cartridge for powering the pellet gun.
The suspect is facing possible charges of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and carry concealed weapon. He was released on an undertaking to appear in court at a later date.