The San José Police Department has made multiple arrests connected to a violent and illegal sideshow that occurred on June 15. The event, which blocked South Winchester Boulevard and Olin Avenue, escalated into chaos when a vehicle struck a spectator and left the individual unconscious, according to a report by SJPD.
In response to the incident, a reserve officer arrived at the scene but was set upon by assailants who overpowered the patrol vehicle, stomped on the windshield, struck the side windows, and attempted to pull open the doors. The officer, threatened by at least one suspect claiming to have knives, sustained minor injuries, and the struck spectator's injuries were termed non-life threatening, the police department stated.
Throughout their investigation, SJPD's Traffic Investigation Unit Detectives identified Aidan Rheault as the suspect responsible for hitting the spectator. Meanwhile, the Assaults Unit Detectives turned their focus on the assault of the officer and vandalism of the patrol car, leading to the identification of seven suspects: Tyler Durbin, Gabe Durbin, Jason Auby, Sean Auby, Matthew Nolan, and one juvenile. Notably, they found that Sean Auby was involved in the illegal manufacturing and sale of privately made firearms (PMFs), also known as ghost guns.
Acting Chief of Police Paul Joseph has clarified that the SJPD and the City of San José have a zero-tolerance policy toward violent sideshows. "When I said every effort would be expended to hold each and every suspect accountable---I meant it," Joseph stated, asserting the resolve of the police force to curb such illegal activities. San José Mayor Matt Mahan echoed this sentiment, "I believe the fundamental responsibility of government is keeping our community safe — and this was a masterclass on how it’s done".
Through the investigative work of SJPD's Assaults Unit and Traffic Investigation Unit and their Analysts with the SJPD Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC), arrests and bookings took place from June 17 to June 27 at various jurisdictions around the San José area. The officials also credited the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program for its support in gathering information leading to the suspects. City Manager Jennifer Maguire spoke about the incident via the SJPD News release, "The threat to police officers and destruction of a public safety vehicles is appalling," she expressed her gratitude for the Police Department's swift action in resolving the situation. Anyone with further information is encouraged to reach out via email or the P3TIPS mobile app.
As investigations continue, the SJPD urges the public to come forward with information by contacting Detectives Tong and Martinez or submitting tips anonymously through the Crime Stoppers Program.
