ON Wednesday, July 23, the New Westminster Police Department arrested a suspect after a 9-1-1 caller reported seeing a man board a bus near Sixth Street and Carnarvon Street with what appeared to be a rifle wrapped in a garbage bag.

The call came in at approximately 3:51 p.m. Officers located the bus and safely took the suspect into custody in the 700-block of Sixth Street at approximately 4:01 p.m., using de-escalation techniques and clear communication to gain compliance.

After closer inspection, it was determined the firearm was a replica. Police said they urge people to consider the risks before bringing replica firearms into public spaces. Officers must treat every firearm as real until proven otherwise.

“We’d like to thank the person who called 9-1-1,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “If you ever see anything that causes you concern for the safety of others we ask that you make the call. We’re here for you.”

Police would like to remind members of the public to keep a safe distance when officers have weapons drawn. This file remains under active investigation.