Anaheim, CA — A 49-year-old man was arrested on gun charges near a rally for former President Donald Trump in Anaheim, California, authorities confirmed. The man, who has not yet been identified, was stopped by deputies while driving a black SUV near the event location on Sunday.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the suspect was found in possession of two firearms and a high-capacity magazine during the traffic stop. Authorities did not specify the nature of the guns but noted that the arrest occurred as part of their efforts to ensure the safety and security of the event. The rally, which drew a significant crowd of Trump supporters, proceeded without further incidents after the arrest.
“We take every threat seriously, especially around high-profile events like this,” said an Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesperson. “Our deputies acted quickly and decisively to prevent any potential danger to the public.”
The arrest occurred during a heightened period of security as Trump made a series of campaign stops in California ahead of the 2024 election season. The former president, who addressed supporters at the Anaheim Convention Center, made no mention of the arrest during his speech, focusing instead on key issues such as immigration and the economy.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing the deputies pull over the black SUV before conducting a search of the vehicle. “It was pretty intense. We saw the police talking to him and then searching the car,” said one attendee who requested anonymity. “With everything going on, it’s good to see law enforcement staying on top of things.”
The arrested man is now facing multiple charges, including possession of an unregistered firearm and carrying a high-capacity magazine, which is illegal under California law. He was taken into custody without incident, and officials have not yet released details regarding his potential motivations or whether he posed a direct threat to the rally.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about security at political events, particularly those involving Trump, who continues to draw both fervent supporters and detractors. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has indicated that additional precautions were taken to ensure the safety of attendees at the rally, and further investigations into the circumstances of the arrest are underway.