Police ID Armed Man Arrested After Shooting Threats

SAN JOSE, CA — Thanks to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, a man armed with an assault rifle and handgun was arrested at San Jose's Westfield Valley Fair mall Wednesday night after live streaming on social media that he would be "shooting up" a mall, officials say.

Hunter Tital, 21, of Seaside was arrested on suspicion of felony charges including possession of an assault rifle and criminal threats, the San Jose Police Department said. Police continue to investigate his motive.

Valley Fair suspect Hunter Tital. 21 years old, a resident of Seaside. Booked for numerous felony charges, including possession of an assault rifle and criminal threats. We are still investigating his motive. pic.twitter.com/eCc65VAN70
— San Jose Police Media Relations (@SJPD_PIO) February 4, 2021

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office immediately began investigating after receiving word of the incident and notified the San Jose Police Department around 4 p.m. Tital's location was quickly tracked to Valley Fair Mall, where he was arrested, officials said.

"Your actions saved lives and we cannot stress enough the importance," the sheriff's office said on Facebook. "If you see something, say something!"

San Jose police intercepted Tital within 45 minutes of receiving word from the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, according to the department. His appearance was distinct; he had purple hair. He was found with a gun, police said.

Police also thanked Santa Clara police and mall security "for their quick actions and peaceful conclusion to this terrifying incident."