UMVA has learned that a potentially catastrophic crime was averted in Peel Region when police seized a loaded handgun with 17 bullets during a routine traffic stop.
The gun, a Glock 17 model, was found in a vehicle during a stop on May 17, and two men, Tyrell Foote and Kieshawn Morgan, were taken into custody. The firearm, which is illegal in Canada, was hidden in a plastic composite casing and had a magazine containing ammunition.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Deputy Chief Marc Andrews revealed that 44 crime guns have been seized in Peel Region so far in 2026, a staggering number that highlights the growing problem of illegal firearms in the community. This number is a significant increase from the past, when gun seizures were rare.
Andrews, a 37-year veteran of the police force, said that the current rate of gun seizures is unprecedented in Canadian policing history. The problem, he emphasized, lies not with law-abiding gun owners, but with the criminal element on the street.
The seized gun and ammunition are a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal firearms. The bullets, a mix of different types, suggest that the owners were not licensed gun owners, as they were not matched to a specific firearm. This "mix and match" approach is a common indicator of the illicit nature of the ammunition.
The two men charged in connection with the seized gun and ammunition are facing serious charges, including unauthorized possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and possession of a loaded prohibited firearm. Their charges have not been tested in court, and they are considered innocent until proven guilty.
This seizure is a significant win for police, but it also highlights the ongoing challenge of combating the flow of illegal firearms into the community. As Andrews noted, the police are tracking the gun to determine its origin and any potential previous crimes.
The incident serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of frontline officers who deal with firearms on a daily basis. Their work is crucial in preventing crimes and keeping the community safe.
