Ghost guns discovered in San Marcos after traffic stop on Pico Avenue and Richmar Avenue

SAN MARCOS, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Two juveniles were arrested Monday in San Marcos on suspicion of firearm-related charges, authorities said.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, officers conducted a traffic stop shortly after 8:30 p.m. near Pico Avenue and Richmar Avenue. The reason for the stop was a “traffic violation.”

According to the department, the two teens in the vehicle, described as an SUV, fled the scene. A sheriff’s dog located two weapons that were allegedly thrown by each of the teens as they fled, the department said.

One of the firearms was found to be a privately-made weapon, also known as a “ghost gun.” As authorities have noted, these types of firearms do not have serial numbers or other identifiable markings.

“The lack of serial numbers makes it extremely difficult for law enforcement to trace these firearms to their owner or manufacturer, which hinders or delays investigations and crime-solving efforts,” the department said in a news release detailing the encounter.

Meanwhile, the second firearm was not registered.

The two juveniles, both 17, were booked into the East Mesa Juvenile Detention Center on suspicion of carrying a loaded firearm in a public place or on a public street and possessing or possessing a firearm without a serial number. Their identities are not being released in accordance with policy because they are considered juveniles.

An investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this case may contact Sergeant Lucia Rodriguez by email at [email protected] or by phone at (760) 510-5200.