San Mateo, CA – On August 24, 2026, at 8:16 p.m., San Mateo Police Department officers responded to the 100 block of 29th Avenue for a report of a suspicious person involved in vandalism. During the investigation, officers reviewed photos and video showing a male suspect, later identified as Alfredo Salas, severing multiple power lines in front of the reporting party’s residence.
Salas was located in the area a short time later. As officers approached him, he attempted to conceal a pair of wire cutters under a water meter cover. Officers recovered the wire cutters and discovered additional wires had been severed within the water meter. Over the course of the investigation, several other locations in the area were reported to have cut wires, resulting in extensive damage.
Salas, who had no apparent prior connection to the affected locations, was arrested for vandalism and attempting to conceal evidence. He was transported to the San Mateo County Jail, where he was booked on his charges.
We ask our community members to stay alert and help us by reporting crimes and suspicious activity. If you see a suspicious person, vehicle, or activity, call SMPD. Trust your instincts. See Something, Say Something.
ARRESTED
Alfredo Salas, 30-year-old Daly City resident
CHARGES:
PC 594 (B) (1)-Felony Vandalism, PC 135-Destroy/Conceal Evidence
