SAN MATEO, CA— On August 2, 2024, a confrontation near 19th Avenue and Grant Street turned violent when a suspect attacked a man with a metal pipe. The incident began when the suspect, driving a U-Haul truck, arrived at the location and started a verbal argument with the victim.
The argument escalated quickly as the suspect retrieved a large metal pipe from the truck. He then struck the victim multiple times, targeting the victim’s head and arms. This assault prompted the victim to defend himself. He drew a .22 caliber pistol and fired at the suspect, hitting him.
Despite being shot, the suspect did not cease his aggression. Instead, he returned to the U-Haul truck and reversed it, ramming into the victim’s parked car. The impact caused significant damage to the vehicle. The suspect then fled the scene, driving the U-Haul truck away at high speed.
The suspect managed to drive approximately 20 miles to Palo Alto, where he eventually sought medical attention. Authorities later located him at a local hospital, where he was treated for his injuries. The suspect’s condition was reported as stable.
Meanwhile, the victim, who sustained injuries from the pipe attack, was transported to a nearby hospital. He received medical care for his wounds and was subsequently released. The incident left both parties injured but not in life-threatening conditions.
The San Mateo Police Department responded promptly to the scene. They conducted an initial investigation and gathered evidence. Officers interviewed witnesses and collected statements to piece together the events leading up to the altercation.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. They have urged anyone with additional information to come forward. Detective Malott has been designated as the point of contact for this case.
The use of a .22 caliber pistol in this incident demonstrates its limitations for self-defense purposes. The .22 LR round, while easy to handle and less likely to over-penetrate, lacks the kinetic energy and wound channel creation seen in larger calibers. In this case, the bullet failed to incapacitate the attacker, who continued his actions and fled. For those considering firearms for personal protection, understanding the ballistic properties of different calibers is crucial. A firearm that can more effectively disrupt vital organs and create immediate incapacitation may be a better choice for self-defense.
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