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Photo courtesy of Canton Police Department. An individual used a realistic-looking airsoft gun, with non-lethal pellets, to threaten officers in the lobby of Canton Police Department on Wednesday afternoon, January 21, 2026.
1-27-2026 12:54am
Airsoft Gun Incident at Canton Police Station Ends without Injuries
Darlene Cancell
Editor
An individual walked into the station lobby of Canton Police Department on Wednesday, January 21st around 3:40 p.m., brandishing what appeared to be a handgun, but which was later determined to be a non-lethal airsoft gun, announced Interim Chief Joseph Perkins later that day.
Canton Police officers spoke through a lobby door to the individual brandishing the apparent weapon - a 36-year-old Canton resident. Police engaged in de-escalation efforts with the individual through conversation. During de-escalation efforts, the magazine fell out of the weapon, and police used a Taser to gain control of the situation.
Police have determined that the weapon brandished by the individual was a realistic-looking airsoft gun that would only fire non-lethal plastic pellets.
The individual was transported to a hospital for evaluation. Police believe the individual was experiencing a mental health crisis.
"I want to commend the professionalism and incredible restraint shown by our officers in an extremely dangerous situation," said Interim Chief Perkins. "They relied on their training and expertise and focused on de-escalation, even while facing a real and immediate threat. Because of the officers' actions, this situation was resolved without injury and the individual was connected with the appropriate mental health services.
Thanks to Canton Police Department for sharing this news with Westwood Minute.
