Full Notification

For Immediate Release

SUBJECT: Firearm seized from a subject going through a crisis
LOCATION: 500 block of Flynn
DATE/TIME: June 14, 2023

Media Information:
On June 14th around 5:35 PM, RCPD Dispatch received two 911 calls with the caller hanging up before providing any information. On those calls a male subject could be heard in the background asking for help. A check of prior calls at the residence revealed that a subject who lives there, a 30-year-old male Redwood City resident, has a history of mental illness.
 
The RCPD officers who responded to the location are all trained in critical incident management and de-escalation techniques. Officers from the department’s Crisis Negotiations Unit (CNU) were requested. CNU Officers specialize in communicating with subjects who are in mental health crisis and need intervention.
 
The subject’s brother exited the residence and advised that his brother was in fact going through a crisis and was armed with a handgun. Officers learned the person going through the crisis made criminal threats to harm his brother. Using time and distance, the Officers were able to formulate a plan and create a de-escalated environment.
 
Shortly thereafter the subject exited the residence with a loaded handgun in his pocket. RCPD Officers used their de-escalation tactics to get him to surrender peacefully and turn the firearm over. He was taken to San Mateo County General Hospital for psychiatric evaluation. The residence was checked for additional firearms, but none were located. A Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO) was obtained, and the weapon was relinquished. The case is currently under review for criminal threats.
 
The Redwood City Police Department strives to provide care and assistance to people going through a mental health crisis, while also ensuring the safety of the community.
 
This case highlights the Redwood City Police Department’s use of Crisis Intervention Trained personnel, along with highly trained experts from the Crisis Negotiations Unit program.
 
For tips regarding any Redwood City cases please call the Tip Line at 650-780-7110.
 
 Nick Perna
 Lieutenant
Investigations Commander
Redwood City Police Department
 
This press release is approved for distribution by the Investigations Division Commander, Lieutenant Nick Perna