Vallejo PD discovers cache of guns, explosives; two arrested

On October 27, 2021 at approximately 11:08 a.m, Vallejo Police Officers responded to the report of two armed male suspects involved in an altercation with a female victim in the 800 block of Miller Avenue.

Responding units learned that the victim was confronted by both suspects (pictured) after an alleged package theft from their front porch. The suspects, identified as 21-year-old Vincent Souza and 22-year-old Anthony Souza of Vallejo, armed themselves with a bat and gun and became involved in a physical altercation with an adult female victim. The victim was subsequently struck by the suspects, causing a bruising and a laceration.

Upon arrival, officers located the suspects and victim in front of the residence. Officers conducted a protective sweep of the suspects’ residence and discovered several illegal assault rifles in plain view. Following the application and receipt of a search warrant (granted by judge), a thorough search of the residence led to the discovery of multiple non-serialized AR-15 type assault rifles, drum magazines, pistols and other firearms.

The discovery yielded a total of: 8 unregistered handguns, 6 unregistered assault rifles, 2 inert grenades, 700 total rounds of 40 caliber, 9 millimeter and .223 armor piercing ammunition, 17 high capacity magazines, 3 drum magazines, a suppressor and a ballistic vest.

“We’re extremely grateful that these suspects were safely apprehended and taken into custody by our officers,” Chief of Police Shawny K. Williams stated. “The possession of these illegal firearms, ammunition and explosives is nefarious in nature and a huge contributor to the cycle of violence on our streets. We’re glad to know that this recovery potentially made a significant impact toward crime reduction.”

21-year-old Vincent Souza and 22-year-old Anthony Souza of Vallejo were both arrested and booked into the Solano County Jail. Both suspects were booked on a series of charges including assault with a deadly weapon, possession of illegal assault weapons, exhibiting firearms, possession of large capacity magazines and carrying loaded firearms.

The Vallejo Police Department would like to especially thank Corporal Tolentino, Officer Demarco, Officer Sullivan and Officer Phillips (authored/obtained search warrant) who responded to this call and assisted in the search, recovery and processing of the residence and/or firearms.”