Ghost gun, fentanyl and other drugs found during vehicle search in North County

SAN MARCOS, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Two people, including a minor, were arrested in San Marcos Friday after a vehicle search led to the discovery of a ghost gun and narcotics, authorities said.

Around 6:30 p.m., deputies observed what they described as an “occupied suspicious vehicle” at 202 South Rancho Santa Fe Rd., explained the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

During a search of the vehicle, authorities found a loaded, privately manufactured weapon — also known as a ghost gun — along with 48 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

“Unlike weapons made by a licensed manufacturer, ghost guns don’t have a serial number or other identifiable markings. The lack of a serial number makes it extremely challenging for law enforcement agencies to track these firearms to their owner or maker, hindering or delaying investigations and crime-solving efforts,” the department stated in a press release detailing the incident.

Deputies also found a variety of illegal controlled substances, which included cocaine, ecstasy, and fentanyl pills.

The occupants of the vehicle, 25-year-old Justin Gioia and a 17-year-old juvenile female, were arrested for various drug sales and firearms charges. Both were booked into the Vista Detention Facility. The juvenile was later released to her parents.

“If you observe criminal activity in your neighborhood, call the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office at (858) 565-5200. The public’s assistance is one of the most valuable tools we have to combat crime and protect the communities we serve,” the department stated.

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