SMPD negotiators safely apprehend armed male threatening restaurant employees. 
On Friday, July 18, 2025, at around 9:58 a.m., SMPD Officers responded to Jack in the Box (2306 S. Broadway) after reports of a man threatening employees and customers with a knife. Officers quickly evacuated the restaurant and attempted to negotiate with the suspect, who refused to cooperate and made threats toward officers.
Thanks to the efforts of SMPD negotiators, the situation was resolved safely and without injury. After approximately 30 minutes of negotiations, officers took the 47-year-old Santa Maria resident into custody without further incident. He was arrested for criminal threats, resisting arrest, and trespassing.
Lt. Nate TotoricaAddress/Location
Santa Maria Police Department
1111 W Betteravia Rd
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 805-928-3781
