According to a press release issued by Fresno County Sheriff Department Public Information Officer, Tony Botti, Fresno County Sheriff’s deputies have arrested 21-year-old Brian Rangel of Everett, WA and 29-year-old Martin Velazquez of Lynnwood, WA. Both have been booked into the Fresno County Jail accused of being felons in possession of firearms and narcotics for sale. Rangel’s bail is $425,000 and Velazquez’ is $325,000, the release stated.
The vehicle in which Rangel and Velazquez were riding was stopped for a traffic violation by a Fresno County Sheriff’s near Interstate 5 and Russell Ave. in Firebaugh on Aug.15, Botti reported. The deputy discovered they were illegally in possession of two guns, one of which was reported stolen, the report stated.
In the car were three fire extinguishers that looked suspicious, the press release stated. The extinguishers did not function and items could be heard rattling inside of them. Botti reported the extinguishers were examined by a narcotics dog and a member of the Explosive Ordnance Device team, and when opened were found to contain Fentanyl pills, which totaled 15 pounds.
Anyone with additional information about drug trafficking or the suspects involved in this case is asked to please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600- 3111 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867, www.valleycrimestoppers.org You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
