AT approximately 12:30 p.m. on October 16, New Westminster Police were called by a resident who described seeing someone with a handgun near Moody Park.

Police flooded the area and located a youth matching the suspect description with a toy handgun, which was part of his Halloween costume.

“As we get closer to Halloween we’d like to remind people about the dangers of incorporating replica weapons into their costumes,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “Anything that can be perceived as a weapon is best kept out of sight when in public.”

Officers would like to remind everyone that for the safety of the public, police must treat firearms as real until they can be proven to be replicas.

“The New Westminster Police Department wishes everyone a safe and fun Halloween. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, handing out candy, or spending time with friends, please look out for one another and keep safety top of mind,” said Leaver.