Loaded firearm recovered during GP Stompede arrest

Jun 5, 2026 | 2:34 PM

Clairmont RCMP took a Grande Prairie resident into custody for allegedly brandishing a firearm during GP Stompede last weekend.

On Friday, May 29, Mounties were conducting evening foot patrols around the grounds and were approached by a visitor at 10:15 p.m. who claimed a man had flashed a handgun at him, before pointing him out to police.

When officers approached, the suspect fled to a nearby parking lot and was safely apprehended after a short foot chase.

During the arrest, Mounties seized a loaded 9mm Norinco handgun, which had its serial numbers deliberately removed and 14 rounds inside the magazine.

Thirty-year-old Grande Prairie resident Steven Stamos was arrested on seven charges:

Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
Carrying a concealed weapon
Unauthorized possession of a restricted weapon
Possession of a prohibited weapon
Possession of a restricted weapon without a licence
Possession of a weapon obtained by crime
Possession of a firearm with a tampered serial number

Stamos is set to appear in court on June 22.

Following the arrest, Clairmont RCMP Constable Kenji Welch said it’s “deeply troubling to see a loaded firearm produced in a crowded public setting,” and said officers remain committed to “responding swiftly” so “community events like the Stompede remain safe for everyone”.

by Tanner Smith