Ghost Gun Arrest in San Marcos
February 24, 2025 – San Diego County Sheriff's Office officials report that a man wanted in connection with a domestic violence 
case has been arrested on weapons charges.
On Saturday, February 22, just after 8:00 p.m. deputies arrested Daniel Castellanos (22) in the 900 block of Mendocino Drive in San Marcos. He was wanted in a domestic violence incident that happened in the City of Vista on February 21.
During a search of Castellanos' vehicle, deputies found a loaded, unregistered, and unserialized handgun (also known as a "ghost gun") by the gas pedal. Unlike weapons made by a licensed manufacturer, ghost guns do not have a serial number or other identifiable markings, making it extremely challenging for law enforcement agencies to track these firearms to their owner or maker. The lack of a serial number can also hinder or delay investigations and crime-solving efforts.
Castellanos was subsequently booked into the Vista Detention Facility on the charges associated with the domestic violence incident and additionally:
- 24610 PC - Manufacture/Sale/Possess Undetectable Firearm (Felony)
- 25100(A) PC - Criminal Storage of Firearm: First Degree (Felony)
- 25850(C)(6) PC - Carry Loaded Handgun: Not Registered Owner (Felony)
- 32310(A) PC - Possession of Large Capacity Magazine (Felony)
The safety of our community is our top priority. We are committed to ensuring that illegal firearms are removed from our streets and that those who possess them are held accountable. If you observe criminal activity in your neighborhood, please call the San Diego County Sheriff's Office at (858) 868-3200.
Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Office
