One individual is facing charges following an incident at a Quinte West school that prompted a significant police response and a school lockdown.
On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, just before 4:00 p.m., members of the Quinte West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to reports of a young person allegedly in possession of a firearm on the grounds of Trent River Public School.
As a precaution, the school was placed in lockdown while officers responded. Police quickly began searching for an individual matching the description provided by witnesses.
Additional resources, including members of the OPP Emergency Response Team (ERT), and the OPP Canine Unit, assisted in locating the suspect and making the arrest.
Officers located the individual a short time later and took him into custody without incident. The investigation determined the firearm was an imitation weapon.
As a result of the investigation, Dakota STONE, 18 years old of Quinte West, has been charged under the Criminal Code with:
Possession of an imitation weapon for a dangerous purpose
Mischief – obstructs, interrupts or interferes with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property
The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville at a later date.
The OPP reminds the public that imitation firearms can be difficult to distinguish from real firearms, particularly in dynamic situations. Incidents involving imitation weapons can cause significant public concern, result in emergency responses, and place unnecessary demands on police and other emergency services. Individuals are encouraged to exercise good judgment and avoid carrying or displaying imitation firearms in public places.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Quinte West OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
