2 Machine Guns Found In San Mateo Home Following Chase: Police

SAN MATEO, CA — Two San Mateo residents were arrested on Friday after two firearms that police characterized as machine guns were allegedly found inside their residence.

The search was conducted after a man allegedly fled from San Mateo police officers who attempted a traffic stop at East Hillsdale Boulevard and Saratoga Drive, according to the San Mateo Police Department.

The driver was identified as 19-year-old Israel Lavea, who allegedly briefly stopped his Dodge Journey near a carwash on East Hillsdale Boulevard, near the San Mateo Police Department headquarters.

Lavea then allegedly suddenly sped away and led police on a pursuit, during which Lavea allegedly drove on the wrong side of the road, police said.

Police lost sight of the vehicle on Curtiss Avenue.

An address in the 100 block of 36th Avenue was identified as associated with Lavea. Officers went there and found him standing next to the vehicle in a nearby carport. He allegedly led them on a brief foot chase before being caught.

Police obtained a search warrant for the residence and allegedly found a pair of modified firearms inside, including two AR-15-style rifles, a dozen .223-caliber magazines, some of which were loaded, and two .40-caliber magazines.

Israel Lavea was arrested on multiple allegations, including felony evading a peace officer with wanton disregard for public safety.

Kaeli Lavea, the who allegedly lived at the residence, was arrested on allegations of possession of a machine gun and possession of an assault weapon, according to the Police Department.

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