Update: Gun Safety Event in Vista 

October 19, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that over the weekend, the San Diego County Sheriff's Office 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 119 unwanted firearms (including 15 assault rifles) were turned in by the public during Sunday's event at the Vista Sheriff's Station, located at 325 South Melrose Drive.

Individuals received a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns or a $200 gift card for assault weapons.

Thanks to the generosity of our community partners, firearm lock boxes and gun cable locks were also given out for free.

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 San Diego County Sheriff's Office and Vista Sheriff's Station would like to thank the San Diego County District Attorney's Office, Oceanside Police Department and the City of Vista for their support in making this Gun Safety Event a success.

Most importantly, thanks to the public for helping us keep our communities safe by getting unwanted firearms off our streets. 

The public can always turn in their unwanted weapons at any Sheriff's station or substation, as well as at any law enforcement agency. 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) 868-3200.

Source & photos: San Diego County Sheriff’s Office