Niagara Falls man facing firearm-related charges

The Niagara Regional Police have charged a Niagara Falls man after allegedly discovering that he was in possession of multiple airsoft (replica) guns. 

Airsoft guns are replica toy guns used in airsoft sports, such as paintball. They are a special type of low-power air guns designed to shoot non-metal spheres. While often colloquially but incorrectly referred to a BB-Guns, they are typically made of plastic or biodegradable resin materials.

Police say that officers responded to an armed person call in the area of Margaret Street and Caledonia Street at roughly 9:40 pm on Jule 13.

Police say that an off-duty officer saw the man, who appeared to be carrying an assault rifle, walking from his house down Margaret Street to Caledonia Street.

“When the male had gotten to the intersection, he appeared to look in both directions to ascertain if there was a threat located in the area. The accused then turned around and returned back to his residence,” a news release said. 

The Emergency Task Unit, K9, and uniform officers responded and contained the area around the house. The male came outside voluntarily and surrendered to police.

David Macdonald, 36, of Niagara Falls, was arrested and charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He was held in custody for a bail hearing and released yesterday.

Police allege that while executing a search warrant on June 14, detectives seized one revolver style handgun (airsoft), two semi-auto pistols (airsoft), one long gun (hunting style airsoft), one assault style rifle (airsoft) and several edged weapons.

“Police are seeing an influx of airsoft rifles in the community. With the strong resemblance to actual firearms, police are treating these airsoft weapons as actual firearms when used inappropriately,” police said in a news release.

“The public is reminded that although these are described as sophisticated air guns, they are not to be used/displayed in public.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service at 905-688-4111, ext. 1002200 or CrimeStoppers at 1 (800) 222-TIPS.