Woodstock, ON – Residents in the area of Harcourt Crescent in Woodstock may have noticed an increased police presence, including officers from the Woodstock Police Service and the Waterloo Regional Police Service, on September 15, 2026.
On September 14, 2026, Woodstock Police Officers attended a residence in the area as part of an investigation. During that investigation, items resembling weapons were observed inside the home, including what appeared to be a rocket launcher. As a precaution, a search warrant was obtained, and the Waterloo Regional Police Service’s Explosives Disposal Unit was called in to safely examine and remove the items from the property.
Upon examination, the items were determined to be inert and confirmed to be a novelty or decommissioned item with no explosive capability. No live firearms or explosive devices were located, and there was no risk to public safety at any time during this process.
One individual was taken into custody during the investigation and has since been released unconditionally. The investigation has now concluded, and no charges have been laid.
The Woodstock Police Service is using this occasion to remind the public of the risks associated with owning or storing items that closely resemble real firearms or military ordnance, even when those items are inert, decommissioned, or collectible in nature.
Police cannot visually distinguish a replica or inert weapon from a real one in the field. Any item that looks like a weapon must be treated as if it were functional and dangerous until proven otherwise, which can require significant police resources including specialized units, to resolve safely.
Realistic replicas, decommissioned firearms, and novelty ordnance should be stored out of plain view and careless use or display should be prevented.
The Woodstock Police Service thanks the community for its patience during this investigation and thanks the Waterloo Regional Police Service for their assistance.
The Woodstock Police Service would like to encourage anyone with information about this investigation to contact the Woodstock Police Service at 519-537-2323 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
