Teen charged after pointing a handgun at another young person near London youth centre

A 16-year-old is facing firearms charges following an incident on Horton St. on Wednesday afternoon.

According to London police, at roughly 1:30 p.m. a teen boy was reported to be in possession of a firearm inside of the Boys and Girls Club (BGC) at 184 Horton St.

Police were reportedly told that the young man had threatened to shoot another young person earlier that day in the city’s north end.

Police say that the suspect was arrested upon arrival without incident.

Police learned that the young man had pointed a handgun at another young person during an argument.

“Any report of a weapon, including a firearm, especially within a school or at a location where children are expected to be in attendance, is a serious public safety concern,” said Superintendent Ryan Scrivens, head of the Uniformed Division.

“We recognize the impact that an event such as this has on employees, students, and members of the community, but there are times during emergent situations, when we must prioritize our response to provide public safety, especially when it may involve our children and youth.”

The suspect who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act has been charged with:

- Pointing a firearm;

- Two counts of uttering threats/property damage; and

- Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order.

Police say that there were no reported injuries and the firearm has not yet been located.

In a statement, BGC London said staff handled the situation with “exceptional professionalism and care.”

“Their swift and effective actions ensured the safety and well-being of everyone involved,” said Brett Gatt, CEO of BGC London.

Gatt clarified in his statement that there was no weapon at BGC London and the incident involved an outside organization that leases space from BGC London. Nobody involved with BGC London were associated with the incident.

“Proactively, BGC London invited London Police’s Special Services Unit (SPICE) to visit us today (Friday),” said Gatt.

“They spent valuable time learning about our organization and discussing ways to enhance our community’s safety and support.”