Bonnyville RCMP say an item reported as a bullet during a January incident at a local business is now believed to have been a pen designed to resemble a bullet, and police do not believe there is an ongoing risk to the public.

Initial Report Raised Safety Concerns

On Jan. 29, 2026, Bonnyville RCMP received a report at the front counter that a male had attended a local business. During a conversation with staff, the male reportedly produced what appeared to be a bullet.

The male then left the business with the item. Staff later raised safety concerns and police began investigating.

Social Media Posts Spark Further Concern

On Feb. 23, 2026, posts made on social media related to the incident raised additional safety concerns for those involved.

Through the course of the investigation, RCMP say they have determined the item presented on Jan. 29 is believed to have been a pen resembling a bullet. Police were provided with one of the novelty pens as part of their investigation.

RCMP say they are working with those involved to address the stress caused by the situation. At this time, police believe there are no public safety concerns, nor a safety risk to the complainant or his staff due to political beliefs or otherwise, stemming from the Jan. 29 interaction.

RCMP Urge Public to Avoid Social Media Speculation

“Allowing police to complete various stages of an investigation is extremely important, especially prior to posting anything on social media,” said Staff Sergeant Lloyd Pinsent, Detachment Commander of Bonnyville RCMP. “Posting on social media may not only compromise an investigation but can pose unnecessary safety risks to all people involved. Social media has its place, and we thank the public for their support in removing and/or refraining from making any threatening posts.”

The investigation remains ongoing.