Decommissioned prop gun prompts lockdown

On the morning of November 4, 2022, the Langley RCMP responded to Walnut Grove Secondary School for a report of a male at the school carrying a firearm.

Initial reports advised an adult man entered the front door and was seen carrying what appeared to be a rifle. The school was immediately locked down and secured while numerous police resources rushed to the school. BC Ambulance was also contacted and they sent several ambulances to stage nearby as a precaution.

Responding officers entered the school and immediately began searching for the individual. As the search progressed throughout the school, it was learned the man may have been a staff member bringing in a prop for an upcoming Remembrance Day ceremony.

"The search of the school continued as other officers arrived. They confirmed that the rifle was a prop, and that there was never a threat to staff or students" said Corporal Craig van Herk, Media Relations Officer for the Langley RCMP "After several minutes, a decommissioned rifle was located and a staff member responsible for it was identified"

Out of an abundance of caution, the other schools in the area were also locked down, and have since re-opened.

"The Langley RCMP thank the staff and students at Walnut Grove Secondary for their quick response, their appropriate reaction and their patience. Their ability to remain calm and cooperate allowed a quick efficient response" van Herk added

Langley RCMP remained at the school communicating with staff, answering questions from students and parents for several hours.

Published by:

Cpl. Craig van Herk
Langley RCMP Detachment
22180 - 48A Avenue, Langley, BC
V3A 8B7
Office No.: 604-532-3231