Man Arrested on Weapon Charges in Connection with Alleged Road Rage Incident in San Mateo
Above: Gun confiscated during arrest
(Photo courtesy of San Mateo PD)
Originally published by the San Mateo Police Department:
“On Sunday, 12/10/23, at 12:16am, SMPD received a call about a road rage incident where a firearm had been brandished in the area of 1600 block of S. El Camino Real. Officers were advised that the suspect vehicle was leaving the parking lot of Safeway. An enforcement stop was conducted and the driver, identified as Tobias Tuuhetokasolofa, was determined to be driving on a suspended license. Due to the nature of the call involving a gun, both the driver and passenger were removed from the vehicle and detained. A search of the vehicle was conducted, and a loaded semi-automatic firearm was located under the front passenger seat. The gun is what is known as a “ghost gun”, an unserialized firearm.
The victim positively identified Tuuhetokasolofa as the subject who pointed a gun at him while driving in the area. During the investigation, it was determined Tuuhetokasolofa has multiple prior felony convictions, and is therefore, prohibited from carrying/possessing a firearm. He was arrested on multiple felony gun charges. His passenger was arrested for public intoxication and obstructing a police officer, both misdemeanors. Tuuhetokasolfa and the passenger were transported and booked into San Mateo County Jail on their individual charges.
We need the community’s support in reporting crimes and being a good witness. If you witness a crime or are a victim of a crime, contact the police immediately. Try to remain as calm as possible and do your best to answer questions from the call taker. Remember details such as the suspect’s appearance, clothing, any distinguishing features, and which direction they flee. Once the police arrive at the scene, cooperate fully, and provide the officers with all the information you have. Your observations can greatly assist law enforcement in our investigation.
Surveillance cameras are also extremely important and help police solve crimes throughout the community. Most often, a suspect will flee the scene of a crime prior to police arrival. Surveillance cameras are helpful for investigations and ensuring criminals are held accountable for their actions. We encourage our residents to register their home surveillance cameras with us. You can securely register your home surveillance cameras on our website at Security Camera Registration | San Mateo, CA – Official Website (cityofsanmateo.org).
ARRESTED:
Tobias Tuuhetokasolofa, 34-year-old San Bruno resident
CHARGE(S):
- 25400(a)(1) PC: Carry a concealed weapon in a vehicle
- 29180(c) PC: Own a firearm without a serial number
- 245(a)(4) PC: Assault with a deadly weapon
- 29800(a)(1) PC: Felon in possession of a firearm
- 30305(a)(1) PC: Prohibited person possessing ammunition
- 25400(c)(5) PC: Carry a concealed weapon with a specific conviction
- 25850(c)(4) PC: Carry a loaded firearm
- 14601.2(a) VC: Drive with a Suspended License for DUI
This was our second road rage incident since Friday. Friday’s case involved a minor accident on the freeway, that led to an altercation on our city streets, where a motorcycle rider was hit intentionally by the driver of an SUV. The driver of the SUV was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon.
Road rage is NEVER acceptable. Patience leaves the body and negative reactions always ensue. If involved in a motor vehicle accident or near miss, keep your wits about you and remain calm. Request medical assistance if needed and/or exchange information. Escalating an already nerve wracking situation does no one any good. When in doubt, call the police and we can assist. But never, never turn a minor incident into a bigger crime.”
