ST. PAUL, Alta. – St. Paul RCMP have confirmed receiving a call for service regarding gunshots being heard at the St. Paul Cathedral on Sunday, Sept. 11 between 11 a.m. and 11:09 a.m.
Kellieka Formanek, Detachment Services Assistant and Media Relations Officer at the St. Paul Detachment says that when police arrived, officers determined there was no actual firearm, no actual gunshot, and there was no real threat.
“It was a plastic toy gun that was located,” said Formanek.
No arrests or charges have been laid against the individual carrying the toy gun.
Fr. Andrew Schoenberger is the priest at the Catholic church. He was not present at the time of the incident since he attended other churches in the diocese over the weekend. According to Schoenberger, Fr. Marvin Tanquerido was presiding over the mass on Sunday.
Schoenberger said that he heard volunteers were involved, who responded “admirably” and remained calm with the situation, ensuring everybody was safe when the individual with the toy gun walked out.
“I know some people were unsettled by the situation and it probably will spark a discussion on what do we do in the future,” said Schoenberger. He explained he’s not in favour of locking down the church, because the church must be open to all people.
“We don’t want to live in fear, and we also have to keep in mind the safety of our people – all of us.”
Schoenberger added that he believes everyone should continue to follow the commandment of “loving our neighbour and loving God,” and remain hospitable and open to others, while exercising due diligence and proper care at all times.
“Make sure that we are looking out for one another in a prudent and thoughtful manner, and we’ll be okay,” he said. “I do care about [the community] and I do want to journey with them as best as I can and find a way forward.”
When asked if those involved with the St. Paul Catholic church have discussed contingency plans or precautions as a result of the incident, Schoenberger said there has not yet been an opportunity for a discussion. But he agreed that it will be something to consider and discuss.
