Full Notification

On November 7, 2026, at about 3:12PM, Santa Maria Police Department officers responded to the 400 block of N. Oakley for a report of a male subject, identified as 40-year-old Santa Maria resident Mario Lopez, who allegedly threatened a resident with a knife before unlawfully entering a vacant property.

Officers located Lopez inside a vacant structure, where he refused repeated commands to surrender and displayed threatening behavior, including pointing a firearm-like object and a metal pipe toward officers.

Officers employed multiple de-escalation techniques, including verbal commands, warnings, and opportunities to surrender. When Lopez continued to resist, officers deployed a distraction device, 40mm less-lethal munitions, and a police K-9, which ultimately resulted in his apprehension.

Lopez sustained only minor injuries and was transported to Marian Regional Medical Center for medical evaluation and treatment. He was subsequently booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail on charges of resisting arrest, brandishing a weapon, trespassing, and a probation violation.

Prepared by: Lt. Shalhoob
[email protected]
(805) 928-3781