(Image Credit: Barriere Secondary School/Facebook)
Barriere School replica firearm

Barriere Secondary responds to student carrying replica firearm

Oct 15, 2026 | 2:17 PM

BARRIERE, B.C. — The principal of Barriere Secondary School said RCMP have launched an investigation into a student carrying a replica/low-velocity gun to school.

On Wednesday (Oct. 14), Principal Derek Markides said in a message to parents that school staff were made aware of the situation and quickly identified the student, who was cooperative in handing over the replica firearm to school administration.

“All students are safe and the school is now working through its investigation. As part of this process, RCMP [were] notified and assisted,” said Markides.

In the message, Markides urged parents to take stock of their children’s mental health following the incident.

“Children respond to news of this nature in different ways. Some may have questions or worries, while others may may show little immediate reaction,” said Markides.

“If you notice your child is having difficulty processing this event or would benefit from additional support, please contact me. We have resources available to support students at school.”

RCMP E Division Media Relations Officer Corporal Brett Urano said in a statement to CFJC Today that there was no danger to students or staff at any time and there was no criminality involved.

On October 1, 2026, the B.C. government introduced changes to the Firearm Violence Prevention Act, including Fair Notice for Parents/Guardians.

The B.C. government said this establishes a clear and consistent province-wide prohibition on firearms, low-velocity firearms (such as BB, pellet, gel, airsoft and paintball guns) and imitation firearms (such as lighters designed to closely resemble firearms) on all K-12 school properties.

It also includes some specific exemptions where firearms may be allowed, including:

  • Cadet programs.
  • Biathlon demonstrations or events.
  • Cinematic, theatrical, film, or artistic activities or performances.
  • Educational activities (e.g., firearms safety training).
  • Those safely transporting firearms, low-velocity firearms, or imitation firearms in a vehicle and complying with other relevant firearms laws.

“The goal of the provincial requirements is to keep schools safe by keeping firearms and objects that look like firearms out of schools,” said Markides.

“Ultimately, at no time should a student bring any object resembling a firearm into school or onto school grounds.”

CFJC Today has reached out to Barriere RCMP for more details.