News Summary
A Navy sailor stationed at Naval Base Coronado is under investigation after authorities discovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition in his vehicle. Petty Officer Second Class Stephan Perez’s car contained a loaded semi-automatic pistol, an AR-15 rifle with a silencer, and about 400 rounds of ammunition, raising serious concerns regarding his mental health and potential violations of military laws. The investigation is underway as investigators assess Perez’s activities and mental state, with broader implications for military regulations regarding firearm ownership.
Coronado, California – A Navy sailor is under investigation by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) after a cache of weapons and ammunition was found in his vehicle on a naval base. Petty Officer Second Class Stephan Perez, who is assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln, had his car discovered on October 7, 2025, at Naval Base Coronado.
Inside Perez’s 2007 Toyota Corolla, which is registered in his father’s name, authorities found an alarming arsenal that included:
- A loaded semi-automatic pistol accompanied by two loaded magazines.
- A Glock featuring a threaded barrel.
- An AR-15 rifle that was equipped with a silencer and a long-distance scope.
- Body armor containing magazine pouches and ballistic plates.
- A machete and a hatchet.
- Approximately 400 rounds of ammunition, which included hollow point bullets.
Investigators noted that the firearms found in the vehicle were not registered in California, potentially breaching state laws. The presence of the Glock’s threaded barrel and silencer may also violate California firearm regulations. Furthermore, having these weapons on a naval installation likely contradicts established Navy regulations concerning firearms.
Documents from the investigation reveal significant concerns regarding Perez’s mental health. He reportedly expressed suicidal thoughts following the denial of his request to attend Navy SEAL training, which was based on “substandard work performance.” This incident prompted the suspension of his certification to possess firearms by his commanding officers.
In addition to the firearms and ammunition, the investigation led to the discovery of other items in Perez’s car, including two cell phones, a notebook, various documents, and duct tape, raising further questions about his intentions. Investigators are also looking into unauthorized trips that Perez made to Mexico back in May 2025, which may provide added context to his current situation.
Navy investigators are scrutinizing whether Perez may have been engaged in the illicit dealings of ammunition and firearms. The investigation is ongoing as officials continue to gather evidence and assess potential violations of both local and military laws.
The USS Abraham Lincoln is expected to deploy shortly after the investigation began, adding urgency to the case surrounding Perez’s activities and state of mind. The findings of the investigation could have broader implications for both the naval community and military regulations regarding personal conduct and firearm ownership.
Authorities from Naval Base Coronado have been contacted for comments regarding the situation, and updates are anticipated as the investigation progresses.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Transition of Command at Naval Base Coronado
U.S. Navy Confirms Identities of Sailors Killed in Helicopter Crash
Additional Resources
- CBS 8
- New York Times
- Jerusalem Post
- Stars and Stripes
- NBC San Diego
- Wikipedia: United States Navy
- Google Search: Navy firearm regulations
- Google Scholar: Navy firearm laws
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Navy
- Google News: Navy sailor investigation
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
