Traffic Stop Leads to Firearm Discovery

A 43-year-old man was arrested early Friday after Pasadena police officers discovered a loaded firearm during a traffic stop near Altadena Drive and Colorado Boulevard, according to Pasadena Police Lieutenant Sam De Sylva.

De Sylva said officers conducted the stop at about 1:15 a.m. March 27 for a vehicle violation. During the stop, officers observed drug paraphernalia in plain view inside the vehicle. The suspect, who was the sole occupant, admitted to having a firearm inside a bag, De Sylva said.

Officers searched the bag and reportedly recovered a loaded Ruger 9mm handgun. A records check determined the firearm was unregistered and that the suspect is a convicted felon, De Sylva said. The man was arrested on suspicion of felony possession of a firearm.

No injuries or resistance were reported during the arrest, according to De Sylva. The firearm was loaded with a magazine but did not have a round chambered. De Sylva confirmed that only drug paraphernalia was found in the vehicle, though officers did not specify the type.

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to call the Pasadena Police at (626) 744-4241 or report information anonymously by contacting “Crime Stoppers” at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) via your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile App on Google Play or the Apple App