Crime & Safety

Man Who Fires Warning Shot at Knife-Wielding Clown Arrested Along with Clown

Everyone ended up in handcuffs after a man fired a warning shot to scare off another man wearing an evil clown mask and carrying a knife.

SANTA CLARITA, CA -- A man suspected of dressing up as a knife-wielding evil clown is lucky to be in handcuffs after the scaring the wits out of a man armed with a trove of guns and narcotics, according to Los Angeles Sheriff’s Deputies.

After a 26-year-old Newhall man called the Santa Clarita Valley Station early Sunday morning to report that he fired a warning shot to scare off a clown armed with a knife, both the shooter and the alleged clown ended up in jail.

The man had called police to report that he had been approached at the 25500 block of Via Desca by a knife-wielding man wearing a clown mask. When deputies arrived, they suspected that the caller was on drugs.
“Further investigation revealed that the caller, who reported the clown incident, was possibly under the influence of illegal substances and may have misconstrued the story,” said Shirley Miller, sheriff’s department public information officer. “He stated to responding deputies that he fired one round into the air to scare away the “clown.” A search of the man’s house revealed multiple weapons, along with illegal narcotics.”

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A short time later, deputies in the area detained a 44-year-old man, who had in his possession, a clown mask, 6- inch kitchen knife, and burglary tools, she said.

Both of the men were taken into custody at Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station. It is unknown at this time if the two incidents are related.

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"Both of the men were taken into custody at Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station. It is unknown at this time if the two incidents are related,” Miller added. “The investigation is ongoing."

The sheriff’s department is using the incident to remind people not to confront armed clowns.

“If you are approached by a 'clown' who is acting in a threatening manner, you are advised to avoid confrontation and call the station immediately at (661) 255-1121,” said miller. “When you call, be a good witness, and try to note any descriptors of the individual or vehicle.

Photo by William Gray via flickr.com


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