News release
Richmond County District RCMP seizes loaded firearm and ammunition with support from Emergency Response Team
November 4, 2026
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Potlotek, Nova Scotia
From: Nova Scotia RCMP
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Richmond County District RCMP seized a loaded firearm after a man was arrested inside a residence with support from Nova Scotia RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) and other units.
On November 2 at approximately 4:45 p.m., Richmond County District RCMP received a report of a person with a firearm inside an apartment on New Subdivision Rd. in Potlotek. Officers were aware that the man was on conditions to not be in possession of firearms or ammunition.
When officers arrived, other people safely exited the unit and officers confirmed that the only person inside was the man, identified as Avery Doucette, with the firearm. Out of an abundance of caution, officers directed people in other units in the building to temporarily evacuate.
From outside, officers observed Doucette holding a rifle inside the residence and believed it to be loaded. He refused to comply with direction from officers on scene. In the interest of public safety, ERT, a crisis negotiator, traffic services, and RCMP Police Dog Services attended to support general duty officers.
At approximately 9:47 p.m., officers entered the residence and safely arrested Doucette.
Investigators located and seized a loaded .308 rifle and a variety of ammunition.
Doucette, 36, from Potlotek, is charged with eight offences including Careless Use of Firearm (two counts), other weapons offences, and Failure to Comply with Undertaking (three counts). He had a first court appearance on November 3 and remains in custody pending future court dates.
Public safety was the priority for all officers involved in this investigation.
File #: 2026-1617687