MONTEREY, CA — A traffic stop on southbound Highway 101 near Hudson Road led to the arrest of an 18-year-old driver on multiple firearms and traffic charges on June 30, 2026.
According to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, a K9 deputy initiated the stop at 10:42 PM after observing a vehicle traveling at 82 MPH and making unsafe lane changes that nearly caused a collision. During the interaction, the driver appeared nervous and repeatedly reached between the driver’s seat and the door. When instructed to exit, the driver claimed the driver-side door was inoperable and exited through the passenger side.
The driver subsequently admitted to having a firearm under his seat. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a loaded 9mm handgun with obliterated serial numbers, a high-capacity magazine, and a marijuana vape pen.
Deputies noted potential gang indicators, including gang-related imagery on the driver’s clothing, red interior lighting, and red floormats. Under California law, individuals under the age of 21 are prohibited from possessing handguns or live ammunition.
The driver was arrested for speeding, driving without a license, unsafe lane changes, possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, possession of an altered firearm, and unlawful possession of a handgun and live ammunition by a person under 21. Deputies counseled the driver’s parents at the scene regarding the suspected gang involvement and weapon possession.
