Reno Police Department announced the arrest of two teenagers following an incident at the city’s 4th Street bus station on Oct. 12. According to a police Facebook post, security officers were attempting to remove two individuals from the station when 18‑year‑old Robert Ruiz‑Ramos allegedly threatened a guard, lifted his shirt and displayed what looked like a handgun in his waistband.
Investigation and evidence
Detectives later used a police‑department drone to locate Ruiz‑Ramos and 19‑year‑old Jake Phillip aboard an RTC bus. A detective observed Ruiz‑Ramos hand the weapon to Phillip, who concealed it in his own waistband. Officers recovered a black airsoft handgun that matched the description provided by the security staff.
Charges filed
Both men were taken into custody and booked at the Washoe County Jail. Ruiz‑Ramos faces multiple counts, including concealing a pneumatic weapon without a valid concealed‑carry permit, brandishing a handgun in a threatening manner in the presence of two or more people, and obstructing an officer by refusing to identify himself during a lawful detention. Phillip is charged with concealing a pneumatic weapon without a valid concealed‑carry permit.
Public‑safety response
The department emphasized that the swift use of drone technology helped locate the suspects quickly and prevent further risk to the public. Body‑camera footage of the encounter has been released for transparency and to reassure the community that the officers acted within policy.
Reno officials encourage anyone who witnesses suspicious activity at transit hubs to report it immediately. The city continues to work with RTC and private security partners to maintain a safe environment for commuters.
Community impact
Local residents expressed relief that the situation was resolved without injury. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance at public transportation sites, especially during peak travel times. Authorities remind passengers that airsoft weapons, while not lethal, can cause panic and are subject to the same legal restrictions as real firearms when used to threaten others.
For more information, the Reno Police Department urges the public to follow its social‑media channels for updates on safety initiatives and to review the released body‑camera video.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.