Firearm seen, suspects fled: Why nearby schools went into hold and secure

A firearm spotted at the scene of a theft in south Kitchener prompted a hold and secure order at nearby Conestoga College and Doon Public School.

Waterloo Regional Police got a call around 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, about a theft underway at a store on Executive Place, near New Dundee Road and Homer Watson Boulevard.

Police confirm to 570 NewsRadio that officers spotted a firearm outside the store, and two suspects fled, prompting brief hold and secure orders at the nearby schools.

It turned out to be a replica firearm. Police say the weapon was not used inside the store.

Officers found and arrested a 51-year-old woman in a vehicle at the scene, and other prohibited weapons were found.

Police later located and arrested a 35-year-old woman from the theft, who turned out to be wanted on multiple outstanding charges.

Charges laid against the two women include possession of a prohibited weapon.

A 29-year-old Kitchener man is still at large.

There is no suspect description from police at this time.