Tijuana municipal police arrested a 22-year-old man after he crashed into a parked car and then pulled a loaded 9mm handgun on the other driver in the El Pípila neighborhood.
The suspect, identified as José Luis “N,” struck the parked vehicle on Boulevard Las Torres. Rather than exchanging insurance information or waiting for authorities, he drew a firearm and threatened the other motorist, according to police. He then fled the scene on foot.
Officers Catch Suspect With Loaded Weapon
Municipal police launched an immediate search operation through the surrounding streets. Officers located and detained José Luis on Calle Culiacán, still carrying the loaded 9mm handgun.
El Pípila sits in the eastern part of Tijuana, an area familiar to residents who use Boulevard Las Torres as a major connector through the city’s hillside colonias. The boulevard sees heavy traffic throughout the day.
Federal Charges for Illegal Firearm
Authorities transferred the suspect to the FGR (Fiscalía General de la República, Mexico’s federal attorney general’s office) rather than to Baja California state prosecutors. The federal handoff points to charges under Mexico’s Federal Firearms and Explosives Law, which classifies unauthorized possession of a 9mm handgun as a federal crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
In Mexico, civilian firearm permits are tightly restricted and issued only through SEDENA (the Secretariat of National Defense). Carrying an unregistered weapon, particularly a 9mm pistol, automatically triggers federal jurisdiction regardless of the circumstances.
What to Do if You Are in a Crash in Tijuana
Traffic collisions in Mexican cities can escalate without warning. If you are involved in a fender bender or more serious accident, stay inside your vehicle and call 911. Do not confront the other driver. Wait for municipal police or transit officers to arrive before exchanging any information. If you feel threatened, drive to the nearest police station or heavily populated area.
The incident was first reported by Jornada BC.