Nearly 300 Weapons Collected At Gun Safety Event In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — Hundreds of unwanted weapons were turned in during a Guns for Gift Cards event Sunday in northern San Diego County.

Authorities collected 293 firearms during the event at the North County Regional Center in Vista, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, which hosted the event with the support of the city of Vista, Oceanside Police Department and San Diego County District Attorney's Office.

Individuals received a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns or a $200 gift card for assault weapons and ghost guns. Community members turning in guns could also choose a new skateboard provided by New Vision Church.

Authorities also gave 13 cable locks and 13 gun safety lock boxes to people looking to secure firearms in their homes.

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.

Community members can turn in their unwanted weapons at any sheriff's station or substation. The department said residents should keep the gun in the vehicle's trunk and await further instructions from a deputy.