Update: Gun Safety Event in Vista
December 11, 2023 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Department officials report that this weekend, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department teamed up with its law enforcement partners to help get unwanted weapons off our streets through a Gun Safety Event in Vista.
A total of 293 unwanted firearms were turned in by the public during Sunday's event at the North County Regional Center located in the 300 block of South Melrose Drive.
Individuals received a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns or a $200 gift card for assault weapons and ghost guns.
Those turning in guns could also choose a new skateboard provided by New Vision Church.
During Sunday's event, 13 cable locks and 13 gun safety lock boxes were also given to people looking to secure firearms kept in their homes.
All weapons collected will be processed. Any firearms found to have been involved in a crime will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency. If any guns are found to be stolen, the original owners will be contacted. All remaining weapons will be destroyed in accordance with the law.
The Sheriff's Department and Vista Sheriff's Station would like to thank the San Diego County District Attorney's Office, Oceanside Police Department, the City of Vista and the Fallbrook Sheriff's Substation for their support in making this Gun Safety Event a success. We'd also like to thank New Vision Church for donating the skateboards.
Most importantly, thanks to the public for helping us keep our communities safe by getting unwanted firearms off our streets. For more photos from today's event, follow the Sheriff's Department on X and Instagram: @SDSheriff.
The public can always turn in their unwanted weapons at any Sheriff's station or substation. For your safety, keep the gun in the trunk of your car and await further instructions from a deputy. For a list of Sheriff's patrol stations, click here. You can also call the Sheriff's non-emergency line at (858) 565-5200.
Source & photos: San Diego County Sheriff’s Department
