Tumbler Ridge shooting: What is known about seized firearms and red flag laws

Officials say firearms were seized from the family home a couple of years ago and later returned after a court petition; RCMP confirmed the weapons used were a long gun and a modified handgun.

The recent mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, has prompted renewed attention to firearm seizure rules and Canada’s so-called red flag laws. RCMP told reporters that firearms had been seized from the family home a couple of years ago and were later returned after a successful court petition. Police confirmed the weapons used were a long gun and a modified handgun and said the suspect was known to police and had prior mental-health interventions. The situation has led public officials and community members to seek clarity about how seized firearms are reviewed and returned under current law. Reported details: - RCMP said firearms were seized from the family residence "a couple of years ago" and were later returned after the lawful owner petitioned to have them back. - The RCMP confirmed the weapons involved in the recent incident were a long gun and a modified handgun. - Authorities reported the suspect had an expired firearms licence, had been known to police, and had multiple past mental-health assessments and hospital visits. - Under Section 117.04 of the Criminal Code, a peace officer may seize firearms without a warrant when there are reasonable grounds, and any seizure is subject to a judicial review hearing within 30 days. Summary: The return of previously seized firearms has prompted questions from provincial officials and community members about how seizure and restoration processes were handled. Investigations are ongoing and further actions are undetermined at this time. The Criminal Code requires judicial review of seizures within 30 days, and some officials have raised the possibility of examining whether legal changes are needed.