It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye.
That was nearly the case for a pedestrian in Campbell River who was targeted in a drive-by shooting with a toy gun — only a pair of sunglasses prevented a serious eye injury.
Campbell River RCMP said it has received recent reports of teens in vehicles shooting at unsuspecting pedestrians with water gel blasters or airsoft guns — something that goes beyond a harmless prank.
Const. Maury Tyre said the shooter could face criminal charges for assault with a weapon. The vehicle driver of could also face sanctions under the Motor Vehicle Act, which could end up triggering a licence suspension for many N
drivers.
In recent weeks, RCMP have heard from pedestrians who have been struck in the face and neck, Tyre said, including the one where a pair of sunglasses prevented the victim from being hit directly in the eye.
“The young people carrying out these shootings think they are just having a bit of fun,” said Tyre. “However, there is a very real chance of injury even with the water pellets or plastic BB pellets that these guns shoot.
“Simply put, if it can hurt you, even in a minor fashion, it’s just not OK, and the police will address it accordingly.”
Gel blasters, easily obtained online and in some retail stores, are described as “backyard fun” and safe for kids with eco-friendly water-based projectiles. Airsoft pistols are low-power air guns that typically shoot projectiles made of plastic or biodegradable resin materials.
Campbell River RCMP are asking anyone with information regarding the drive-by shootings to contact the detachment at 250-286-6221.
