Full Notification

Felon arrested on a host of gun related charges after brandishing a firearm.

San Mateo, CA –On Monday, 12/10/23, at 12:16am, SMPD received a call about a road rage incident where a firearm had been brandished in the area of 1600 block of S. El Camino Real. Officers were advised that the suspect vehicle was leaving the parking lot of Safeway. An enforcement stop was conducted and the driver, identified as Tobias Tuuhetokasolofa, was determined to be driving on a suspended license. Due to the nature of the call involving a gun, both the driver and passenger were removed from the vehicle and detained. A search of the vehicle was conducted, and a loaded semi-automatic firearm was located under the front passenger seat. The gun is what is known as a “ghost gun”, an unserialized firearm.  

The victim positively identified Tuuhetokasolofa as the subject who pointed a gun at him while driving in the area. During the investigation, it was determined Tuuhetokasolofa has multiple prior felony convictions, and is therefore, prohibited from carrying/possessing a firearm. He was arrested on multiple felony gun charges. His passenger was arrested for public intoxication and obstructing a police officer, both misdemeanors. Tuuhetokasolfa and the passenger were transported and booked into San Mateo County Jail on their individual charges.

We need the community’s support in reporting crimes and being a good witness. If you witness a crime or are a victim of a crime, contact the police immediately. Try to remain as calm as possible and do your best to answer questions from the call taker. Remember details such as the suspect’s appearance, clothing, any distinguishing features, and which direction they flee. Once the police arrive at the scene, cooperate fully, and provide the officers with all the information you have. Your observations can greatly assist law enforcement in our investigation.    
 
Surveillance cameras are also extremely important and help police solve crimes throughout the community. Most often, a suspect will flee the scene of a crime prior to police arrival. Surveillance cameras are helpful for investigations and ensuring criminals are held accountable for their actions. We encourage our residents to register their home surveillance cameras with us. You can securely register your home surveillance cameras on our website at Security Camera Registration | San Mateo, CA - Official Website (cityofsanmateo.org).      
 
ARRESTED: 
Tobias Tuuhetokasolofa, 34-year-old San Bruno resident
 
CHARGE(S):
25400(a)(1) PC:  Carry a concealed weapon in a vehicle
29180(c) PC:  Own a firearm without a serial number
245(a)(4) PC:  Assault with a deadly weapon
29800(a)(1) PC:  Felon in possession of a firearm
30305(a)(1) PC:  Prohibited person possessing ammunition
25400(c)(5) PC:  Carry a concealed weapon with a specific conviction
25850(c)(4) PC:  Carry a loaded firearm
14601.2(a) VC:  Drive with a Suspended License for DUI