Skip to main content

An iPhone case shaped like a gun is shown in this undated handout photo. A Manitoba man has turned his cellphone case over to police after it caused panic on a crowded public beach.The Canadian Press

A Manitoba man has turned his cellphone case over to police after it caused panic on a crowded public beach.

The black case, shaped like a handgun, was tucked in the waistband of the man's shorts on Sunday while he was at Grand Beach north of Winnipeg.

RCMP were called and responded with real rifles and Tasers.

They found the man sitting on the beach with family members, including children, and quickly determined he was only armed with an iPhone.

Sgt. Bert Paquet says the 34-year-old man was questioned and voluntarily gave officers the case for disposal.

He will not face charges.

"While the individual knew this item to be a fake gun, our officers did not," said Paquet.

"Some people do not realize the risks associated with openly carrying or displaying these replicas in a public space. Anyone who owns this type or similar devices should safely dispose of them immediately."

Interact with The Globe