Norcal Roommate Tries To Shoot Roommate But Rifle Malfunctions: MCS

Mendocino County deputies said a woman allegedly pulled the trigger on a rifle during a robbery- kidnapping, but the weapon malfunctioned.

By Bay City News, News Partner

Jul 5, 2026 6:17 pm PDT | Updated Jul 5, 2026 6:37 pm PDT

A Covelo woman faces attempted murder, attempted robbery, kidnapping, and other charges after authorities said she tried to shoot her roommate with a rifle that failed to fire. (Renee Schiavone/Patch)

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA — A 39-year-old woman was accused of attempted murder after she "pulled the trigger" on a rifle but it didn't go off, Mendocino County Sheriff's deputies said.

Abigail Sanchez-Santos was also accused of attempted robbery, napping and making criminal threats against her 44-year-old male roommate in the 23600 block of Biggar Lane in Covelo, the Sheriff's Office said Wednesday.

The victim told deputies that Sanchez-Santo entered his bedroom armed with the rifle and attempted to take his belongings the morning of June 26.

"During the robbery, Sanchez-Santos moved the victim towards the outside of the residence, made threats to kill him then pulled the trigger on the rifle," according to deputies. "The firearm malfunctioned and did not discharge."

The man got away and reported the incident to law enforcement. He was treated by emergency medical personnel for superficial injuries, deputies said.

Sanchez-Santos was booked into the Mendocino County Jail where she is being held in lieu of a $1 million bail, deputies said.

Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office at 707-463-4086 (option 1). Information can also be provided anonymously by calling the non-emergency tip-line at 707-234-2100.