$1,000 reward offered for information about metal spikes in roadways
-The Paso Robles Police Department Detective Bureau is actively investigating a series of vandalism incidents involving the deliberate placement of caltrops, metal spikes designed to puncture vehicle tires, on public roadways.
Since early spring, officers have documented more than 40 incidents in which vehicles sustained tire damage due to these devices. On July 21, 2025, the department began receiving a new wave of calls reporting similar damage, with reports continuing into the next day.
These acts of vandalism have now begun to impact emergency services. In one incident last night, an ambulance responding to a call for service was disabled after hitting a caltrop, requiring a second ambulance to complete the emergency response. In another case that same evening, a tow truck assisting a stranded motorist whose vehicle had been disabled by a caltrop, was itself rendered inoperable by the same type of device.
The latest cluster of incidents occurred primarily along Creston Road and the Riverside/Black Oak area.
In an effort to bring those responsible to justice, Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in this case.
Motorist who have been affected are encouraged to file a report by calling the Paso Robles Police Department at (805) 237-6464, or by submitting an online report at www.prcity.com/671/File-a-Police-Report.
The Paso Robles Police Department is urging residents to remain vigilant. If you observe anyone placing objects on the roadway or see suspicious activity or suspicious vehicles in the affected areas, please report it immediately.
This remains an active investigation, and the Paso Robles Police Department urges anyone with information to come forward. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers by calling their 24-hour hotline at (805) 549-STOP, or by texting “SLOTIPS” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).
