Wanted Man Arrested With Guns, Suspected Meth In North County: Sheriff's Office

FALLBROOK, CA — A man wanted on an outstanding warrant was arrested in North County after deputies found two firearms and suspected methamphetamine in his possession, authorities said.

Deputies with the San Diego County Sheriff's Office Crime Suppression Team spotted Ruben Vidaca, 41, driving near South Pico Avenue and West Elder Street in Fallbrook and knew he had an active warrant, according to the sheriff's office.

Subscribe

Deputies stopped Vidaca at the intersection and arrested him without incident, authorities said.

During a search, deputies found a small amount of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia on Vidaca, officials said.

Deputies also searched his vehicle and found a loaded 9 mm handgun in the passenger compartment, along with a .22-caliber rifle and ammunition in the trunk, according to the sheriff's office.

Authorities said the serial numbers on both firearms had been altered, preventing investigators from immediately identifying their owners. The guns will be sent to the sheriff's crime lab for further examination.

Vidaca was booked into the Vista Detention Facility on the outstanding warrant and multiple weapons and narcotics charges, according to the sheriff's office.