Nearly 150 Weapons Turned In During Gun Safety Event In San Diego County

SAN MARCOS, CA — Nearly 150 firearms were collected during a gun safety event over the weekend in northern San Diego County.

Authorities collected 144 unwanted weapons Saturday at the San Marcos Sheriff's Station, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.

Individuals received a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns, or a $200 gift card for assault weapons. All weapons collected will be processed, and any firearms found to have been involved in a crime will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency, sheriff's officials said.

If any guns are found to be stolen, the original owners will be contacted. All remaining weapons will be destroyed, officials said.

The sheriff's office hosted the event in partnership with the San Diego County District Attorney's Office, Carlsbad Police Department, Palomar College Police Department and the University Police Department at Cal State San Marcos to get unwanted guns off the streets.

Community members can turn in their unwanted weapons at any sheriff's station or substation, as well as at any law enforcement agency. Sheriff's officials said residents should keep the gun in the trunk of their vehicle and await further instructions from a deputy.