In London, Ontario, the number of reported shootings has reached 20 in 2025, prompting police to intensify efforts in identifying the sources of illegal firearms and removing them from circulation. The Guns and Gangs Section of the London Police Service (LPS) has initiated the Firearms Analysis and Tracing Enforcement (FATE) process, which has so far traced the origins of 31 guns this year.
The intricate process begins with Detective Constable Craig Walsh, a forensic specialist, examining firearms in the Forensics Identification Section lab. Utilizing advanced equipment and technology, Walsh first focuses on collecting DNA samples from the weapons to uncover valuable clues that could lead to arrests and weapon seizures.
Following DNA collection, Walsh shifts his attention to fingerprint analysis. By dusting the firearm’s surface with a fine powder and using a laser to reveal fingerprints, Walsh can compare them to a national database for potential matches, aiding in identifying suspects.
Additionally, firearms themselves leave unique “fingerprints” on bullets and casings, which can be preserved and compared to international databases for potential matches with evidence from other crime scenes. This method helps in tracking the movements of firearms used in criminal activities.
Detective Sergeant Jon Meinen highlighted the importance of understanding the origins of firearms, with a significant percentage entering London from the United States. Meinen emphasized the connection between guns and gang or drug-related activities, stating that tracing the source of firearms plays a crucial role in reducing gun-related incidents in the city.
As criminals adapt their behaviors, including the use of ghost guns and the avoidance of tampering with serial numbers, forensic experts continually evolve their techniques to stay ahead. By leveraging DNA, fingerprints, and ballistic analysis, law enforcement aims to disrupt the influx of illegal firearms and enhance public safety.