Chualar Man Arrested Following Reported Brandishing of Firearm in Castroville Bar
CASTROVILLE, CA — Monterey County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 40-year-old Martin Vasquez Valle of Chualar on March 19, 2026, following a reported firearm brandishing at bar in the 10700 block of Merritt Street in Castroville. Deputies were dispatched to the scene at approximately 7:45 P.M. regarding a subject who was reportedly intoxicated and had displayed a firearm inside the business.
Upon arrival, deputies observed a male matching the description provided entering the building. Witnesses informed the deputies that the subject had gone into the restroom. As deputies attempted to enter the restroom, they observed the subject pointing a firearm in their direction. After the door closed, deputies retreated and issued commands for the subject to exit.
When the subject exited the restroom, deputies utilized less-lethal tools to effect an arrest. The subject fled through an open door but was apprehended shortly thereafter. During the ensuing struggle, the subject resisted arrest, resulting in minor injuries to two deputies. A non-serialized 9mm handgun, containing one chambered round and additional rounds in the magazine, was recovered from the restroom.
Valle was booked into the Monterey County Jail on several charges, including being a felon in possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm in public, and brandishing a firearm. He was also charged with providing false identification to a peace officer and resisting or obstructing an officer. Additionally, authorities determined Valle had an outstanding felony warrant with no bail.
