Gun Arrest in San Marcos 

July 22, 2024 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Department officials report that Deputies from the San Marcos Sheriff's Station are committed to taking illegal, privately manufactured weapons off the streets in the North County.

On Saturday, July 20, just before 9:30 p.m., deputies conducted a traffic stop on West Mission Road near Comet Circle. A passenger in the car, Victor Lopez (25), got out of the car and ran off. Deputies quickly caught up to him and detained him. Lopez was found to be in possession of a loaded, privately manufactured weapon, also commonly known as a ghost gun.

Unlike weapons made by a licensed manufacturer, ghost guns don't have a serial number or other identifiable markings. The lack of a serial number makes it extremely challenging for law enforcement agencies to track these firearms to their owner or maker, hindering or delaying investigations and crime-solving efforts.

Lopez, who is also a convicted felon, was arrested on several firearms-related charges and booked into the Vista Detention Facility.

If you observe criminal activity in your neighborhood, call the San Diego County Sheriff's Office at (858) 565-5200. The public's assistance is one of the most valuable tools we have to combat crime and protect the communities we serve.

Source & photos: San Diego County Sheriff’s Department