SANTA CLARITA (CNS) – A 26-year-old Newhall man who said he fired a
warning shot to ward off a knife-wielding man in a clown mask ended up
arrested, as did a suspect who was found nearby with a knife, burglary tools
and a clown mask, authorities said today
A man called the sheriff’s Santa Clarita Valley Station about 6:35 a.m.
Sunday to say he had been approached in the 25500 block of Via Desca by a knife-
wielding man wearing a clown mask, according to the sheriff’s department.
“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,” according to Shirley Miller, public information
officer at the Santa Clarita Valley Station.
“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.”
Soon after and not far from the caller’s home, deputies detained a 44-
year-old man who allegedly had in his possession a clown mask, a 6-inch kitchen
knife and burglary tools, Miller 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.
The investigation is ongoing.”
Officials at the station urged anyone to contact authorities any time
they see suspicious activity and for anyone approached by a clown who is acting
in a threatening manner to avoid confrontation and call the station at (661)
255-1121.
“When you call, be a good witness, and try to note any descriptors of
the individual or vehicle,” Miller advised.
CNS-10-17-2016 20:53