Calgary police officers seized a loaded, high-velocity rifle, a suppressor, and extended magazines following a routine late-night traffic stop outside a northwest hotel.
Officers initiated the stop around 11 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, targeting an occupied pickup truck parked outside the Red Carpet Inn at 4635 16 Avenue N.W. A quick background check revealed that the license plate did not match the vehicle, and the driver lacked a valid driver’s license.
After confirming that suspects had stolen the truck, officers immediately arrested the driver. A later search of the suspect’s hotel room uncovered a loaded AR-15–style rifle with its serial number scratched off, alongside a suppressor, multiple loaded magazines, additional ammunition, and several mobile phones.
Police charged 35-year-old Matthew Randel Lynden Smith with nine firearm-related offenses, including unsafe storage and possessing weapons while under a court prohibition. Authorities also charged Smith with possessing stolen property over $5,000 and five counts of failing to comply with court-ordered conditions.
Smith remains in custody and will face a judge in court on Monday, September 28, 2026. Investigators urge anyone with additional information about the case to contact the Calgary Police Service non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.