Deputies have booked Michael Martinez of Lemoore into the Fresno County Jail. Martinez, who turned 28 on Monday, faces charges of driving under the influence and illegal possession of a firearm.
Around 1:30 pm on Monday, Martinez was driving northbound on S. Dickenson Ave toward W. Mt. Whitney Ave. in Riverdale when he nearly crashed into another motorist. A witness described Martinez’ gray Buick SUV going airborne approximately 20 feet and then coming down to a stop. Martinez walked to a nearby farming business and asked to use a telephone. A worker there suspected Martinez was drunk. The worker followed Martinez back to his vehicle to prevent him from driving away. However, they noticed a handgun on the floor of his vehicle and did not push the issue any further. Instead, they walked away and called the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. The worker told Martinez not to leave. Fortunately, he listened and stayed parked.
Deputies arrived and detained Martinez, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Deputies contacted the California Highway Patrol and an officer responded to conduct a field sobriety test. Martinez failed the test and was found to have a blood alcohol level more than three times the legal limit.
Deputies searched Martinez’ SUV and found a loaded gun, more specifically a Ghost Gun. This is a firearm law enforcement is unable to trace due to it not having a serial number. Ghost Guns are commonly assembled by purchasing individual parts and piecing them together. This assembly process is legal under federal law, however, the California Department of Justice requires a person to apply for a unique serial number.
Anyone with additional information on Michael Martinez can contact the Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600-311. You may also contact Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867 or www.valleycrimestoppers.org You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
