Loaded Gun Seized As Man Surrenders To Peninsula Authorities

SAN MATEO, CA — Authorities seized a loaded gun from an intoxicated man who was experiencing a mental health crisis Saturday night in San Mateo, police said.

The incident occurred in the 500 block of Ventura Ave. at the home of his elderly mother according to police.

A police dispatcher calmed the elderly woman and was able to coordinate her safe exit from the home with officers as they arrived on the scene.

Officers negotiated a peaceful surrender with the man who was believed to be suicidal, police said.

The man was detained for treatment at a mental health facility.

The San Mateo Police Department said in a statement that it advocates crisis intervention training (CIT) and that its officers undergo a 40-hour training program that includes deescalation training.

“Our hope is to always show individuals there are options and other paths available to assist them through their crisis,” the statement said.

“Through collaborative community partnerships and intensive training, CIT improves communication, identifies mental health resources for those in crisis, and ensures officer and community safety.”

The CIT is explained in a National Alliance on Mental Illness video clip.