Illegal 'Ghost Gun" Found During San Mateo Traffic Stop

SAN MATEO, CA — An illegal firearm was seized in a traffic stop Wednesday evening, San Mateo police said.

Officers during a traffic stop for a vehicle violation on Fashion Island Boulevard noticed noticed numerous zip-lock baggies of a leafy green substance that appeared to be marijuana in plain view and found the driver to be “acting strange,” police said.

During a search of the vehicle officers found loaded “ghost gun” under the driver's seat, easily accessible by the driver, police said.

The driver was arrested and the gun was seized according to police.

A "ghost gun" is a firearm that is homemade, or a commercial firearm sold without serial numbers and unregistered. They are often made of different gun parts.

In 2016, California passed a measure requiring anyone planning to build a homemade firearm to obtain a serial number from the state (register) and pass a background check.

“These are actual real, working firearms and are just as deadly. Don't let their kitschy name fool you,” the SMPD said.