Nevada County Arrest: Man with BB Gun Creates Panic in Busy Commercial Area
Photo: Weapons evidence collected during arrest | Truckee PD
On the morning of June 9, 2023, panic ensued in the bustling Commercial Row area when multiple 911 calls flooded the Nevada County Regional Dispatch Center, reporting a man brandishing a
Bb gun evidence collected during arrest | Truckee PD
firearm. Witnesses described a scene where the individual, later identified as Frank Battaglia, 44, from Truckee, was seen waving a handgun over his head while shouting at passing vehicles and pedestrians. The incident took place near a local gas station at 10041 Donner Pass Road, during a time of high foot and vehicular traffic.
Promptly responding to the emergency calls, law enforcement officers swiftly initiated a coordinated effort to neutralize the threat posed by the armed individual. Reports from a concerned caller indicated that the suspect had concealed the firearm in his waistband, adding to the urgency of the situation.
Officers arrived at the scene and spotted the subject still standing in front of the business. Demonstrating commendable compliance, Frank Battaglia was apprehended without any further incident. Subsequently, he was taken into custody and transported to the Nevada County Correctional Facility.
Upon investigation, it was determined that the firearm in question was, in fact, a Glock BB gun designed to resemble a real firearm. The realistic appearance of the BB gun, which can easily be mistaken for an actual handgun, heightened the fear and concern of witnesses and passersby.
Frank Battaglia now faces charges under Section 647 (f) PC, which relates to disorderly conduct, and Section 20170 PC for displaying an imitation firearm in public. These charges underscore the gravity of creating a sense of imminent danger in a crowded and public setting.
