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“There was the trust and confidence issues there, and a big part of this was getting both the rifle back and looking to work to restore that kind of trust and confidence because we need that.”

The Calgary Police Service reported a separate investigation into the officer’s handling and storage of the firearm, including his decision to remove it from police headquarters, is ongoing.

Spokesman Kevin Brookwell said a provincial police watchdog will review the investigation. Next, Crown counsel in Edmonton – not in Calgary, to maintain independence – will look at the case to determine if charges should be laid against the officer.

Baker, a three-year member of the police service, remains suspended with pay.

Walker said police have identified persons of interest in the firearm theft, but no suspects. The home where they seized the rifle and magazines was not previously known to police.

There is no reason to believe the rifle was used in the commission of an offence but an ongoing forensic examination of the weapon will reveal whether it was discharged, among other possible clues, Walker said.

Investigators are still searching for the case that contained the firearm and magazines, which may reveal more clues into this unravelling mystery.

Officers are also looking for the driver of a vehicle that was in a parking lot next to Schanks during the night the gun was stolen. The witness was temporarily blocked by a suspect vehicle believed to be occupied by those responsible for the theft.

Walker said officers have poured “countless hours” into recovering the rifle with a tremendous sense of urgency.

“From the chief on down, no one’s been sleeping well for the last 12 days, and I can assure you of that,” Walker said.

“This is Scotty in the engine room: ‘Captain, the ship’s gonna blow’,” he said, referring to the chief engineer in the Star Trek series.

rsouthwick@calgaryherald.com