Two men shooting targets with an Airsoft rifle on a Saanich beach are apologizing for sparking a police response on Monday evening.
Police were called after two men were observed about 7 p.m. walking along the pathway at Balmacarra Park and then down to the beach carrying what appeared to be a long gun.
When officers arrived, they saw two men getting into a vehicle and were able to stop the vehicle before it pulled away.
Upon opening the trunk, they discovered a black long gun that was determined to be an Airsoft rifle that fires non-lethal BBs but resemble a real rifle.
Const. Markus Anastasiades said police treat all firearms as though the are a real threat until proven otherwise. “Calls like this put the public and police at significant risk,” he said.
The men had explained that they were target shooting down on the beach and were immediately very apologetic for generating a police response and concern amongst the community, police said.
Satisfied with their response, police released both men without charges - but the rifle was seized.
Anastasiades said there are no indoor or outdoor spaces in Saanich where the public can discharge firearms or crossbows — including pellet or BB guns — “except in very specific situations.”
