Eureka Police Department release:

On October 1, 2025, at approximately 9:23 a.m., a Eureka Police Department Patrol Officer conducted a traffic enforcement stop near 1st and F Street. During the stop, the driver— identified as 19-year-old Blake Richardson—was found to be legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Ammunition was located in the front area of the vehicle, and Richardson was taken into custody.

With assistance from a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) K9 Team, a subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered additional ammunition in the trunk, along with several small bags containing a suspected controlled substance. A deputy from the HCSO Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit was also dispatched to safely handle a modified illegal firework found inside the vehicle.

A follow-up search of Richardson’s residence was conducted, resulting in the discovery of a handgun equipped with an illegal magazine and additional suspected controlled substances. Richardson was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for violation of a court order, possession of a controlled substance, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

This remains an active investigation. In order to preserve its integrity, additional details are not being released at this time.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Eureka Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Unit at (707) 441-4300.