Following a road rage incident on June 9, Sonoma County detectives have arrested 51-year-old Manteca resident Joel Dunn after uncovering an array of weapons, including a "ghost gun." The altercation, which occurred in stuck traffic on Highway 37, escalated when Dunn allegedly brandished a handgun at the victims, threatening to shoot one of them in view of two children seated in the back of their car. According to a post by the Sonoma Sheriff, detectives identified Dunn and secured search and arrest warrants for his person and residence.

On June 17, the execution of these warrants in Manteca led to the discovery of multiple weapons including two carbon dioxide-powered pepperball guns, a loaded .40 caliber un-serialized handgun, a collapsible baton, and pepper spray. The Sonoma Sheriff also mentioned that Dunn faces a litany of charges such as assault with a deadly weapon and child endangerment. Standing amid the array of confiscated weapons, detectives charged Dunn while recognizing the gravity of what might have occurred had they not intervened.

Dunn, who has a previous felony on his record, making his possession of the found firearms illegal, was booked into the San Joaquin County Jail. The charges include misdemeanor possession of tear gas, possession of a baton, brandishing a firearm, and felon in possession of ammunition, among others. Soon after his arrest, Dunn was released on $50,000 bail.

Community concern has risen following incidents like these, wherein individuals with criminal histories remain within reach of deadly arsenals. Following his release from custody, Dunn's case serves as a poignant example. Dunn's access to such weaponry poses a range of questions about the oversight of felons post-incarceration and the ease with which ghost guns can be acquired and kept hidden from the law.