August 3, 2026 – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that on Friday, Deputy Norris was patrolling the area of Creek Road and Cactus Drive in Los Banos when he observed two individuals believed to be consuming alcohol while standing next to a vehicle parked along the roadway. During his investigation, Deputy Norris conducted a pat-down search of one of the individuals and located a concealed loaded handgun. The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Cesar Gomez, did not possess a concealed carry permit, and the firearm was not registered to him.

Gomez was arrested and booked into the Merced County Jail for carrying a concealed firearm without a permit, carrying a loaded firearm in a public place, and carrying a loaded firearm not registered to the individual.

This remains an active investigation. If you witness suspicious activity or believe someone is unlawfully carrying a firearm, report it immediately by calling 9-1-1 in an emergency or contacting our non-emergency number at 209.385.7445. Great job, Deputy Norris, on your proactive efforts in keeping our communities safer for everyone!

Source: Merced County Sheriff's Office