BB Gun discovered near CV Link in Indio prompts safety warning
Luis Avila
INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – A realistic-looking BB gun found Wednesday morning near the entrance of the CV Link at Monroe Street in Indio prompted a response from law enforcement and sparked a broader conversation about public safety and the risks posed by imitation firearms.
A photo submitted to News Channel 3 showed law enforcement officers surrounding what appeared to be a rifle. The weapon was later confirmed by Indio Police to be an airsoft rifle, also known as a BB gun. Although not a firearm, experts warn that these replica weapons can be dangerous.
“BB guns shoot a plastic and metal projectile, and they can, like my mom used to say, put an eye out. So there’s the direct danger of the BB’s which should be only used on a paper target with adult supervision. But the other thing is a kid running around with a BB gun that looks like an AR-15.”
Storm Jenkins, Guns of Distinction Owner
Storm Jenkins, a former law enforcement officer and owner of Guns of Distinction, explained that the design of BB guns has evolved over the years. Unlike the obvious toy-like appearance of older models, modern BB guns are often made to look strikingly similar to real firearms. Although laws require BB guns to be sold with an orange tip for identification, those tips can be easily painted over—making it nearly impossible for bystanders or officers to tell the difference in a split-second encounter.
“When I was a police officer, BB guns looked like a Daisy rifle or a plastic revolver — you knew it wasn’t real. Now, they look so realistic. The person being pointed at may not know it’s not a real gun.”
Storm Jenkins, Guns of Distinction Owner
Under California law, it is generally legal to own a BB gun. However, displaying one in public is prohibited, and anyone under the age of 18 must have parental permission to possess one.
Jenkins believes more education is needed around the safe use and handling of BB guns. His advice to the public: if you come across any object that looks like a firearm—don’t take chances and call the authorities.
How the BB gun ended up near the CV Link remains unclear. Indio police say they are taking proactive measures to ensure public safety in the area.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.