Illegal Fireworks in Vista 

December 13, 2023 - San Diego County Sheriff’s Department officials report that a man is in custody on numerous charges connected to an illegal fireworks investigation in Vista.

On Tuesday, December 12 around 5:00 a.m., deputies from the Vista Sheriff's Station served a search warrant at a home located in the 700 block of North Citrus Avenue. The Sheriff's Special Enforcement Detail (SED/SWAT) and Sheriff's Bomb/Arson Unit, as well as the City of Vista's Code Enforcement Unit and County Child Protective Services assisted with this operation.

The search warrant was the culmination of an ongoing investigation related to reports of explosions and illegal fireworks being set off in the area in and around North Citrus Avenue. The Vista Sheriff's Station has received numerous complaints over the past several months about illegal activity taking place at the address in question. As a result, Sheriff's Detectives began an investigation with the assistance of the Sheriff's Gang Enforcement Team (GET) and the Sheriff's Narcotics and Gang Team (SNGT).

During Tuesday's operation, 19 individuals were contacted and detained at the home on North Citrus Avenue. A search of the property resulted in the seizure of more than three pounds of cocaine, a firearm, ammunition, cash, and a mortar tube used in setting off illegal fireworks.

Gillermo Vargas (34) was arrested on numerous charges, including child cruelty, possession of a controlled substance for sale, possession of a controlled substance while armed and cocaine possession. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility. A bail enhancement was requested and granted. Vargas is currently being held on $500,000 bail.

Source & photos: San Diego County Sheriff’s Department