Stolen firearm, illegal fireworks found after felon recklessly drives to evade police

(KRON) – A felon was found with a stolen firearm and illegal fireworks after evading police, according to the San Mateo Police Department.

At 10:05 p.m. on the Fourth of July, while patrolling, San Mateo police officers noticed a man light a mortar-style firework near Second Avenue and Humboldt Street. Police said officers tried to make contact with the suspect, but he took off in his car with a female passenger and began to speed recklessly. A vehicle pursuit ensued, but was terminated for public safety. 

Police identified the suspect as 25-year-old Redwood City resident Okusitino Tau, and found him a residence in the 100 block of S. Grant Street. SMPD said Tau attempted to hide from police but was located. 

The female passenger, who was identified as Merced resident Samatalifolau Langi, was also detained. 

A stolen firearm and multiple illegal fireworks were found in Tau’s car, police said. 

Tau, who is also a felon on parole, was arrested and booked into the San Mateo County Jail for multiple charges:

• Violations of being a felon in possession of a firearm
• Evading with wanton disregard for safety
• Possession of a loaded firearm in public
• Obstructing or resisting an officer
• Possession of stolen property
• Possession of fireworks without a permit
• Hit and run of an uninvolved vehicle that was later discovered by officers

Langi, 24, was arrested and booked into the San Mateo County Jail for violations of possession of a narcotic substance and possession of a controlled substance without a prescription.