The incident, which unfolded at on the evening of February 8, 2025, starting at approximately 7:20pm, involved the City of Coronado Police Department responding to a call from an individual experiencing a mental health crisis. According to the official statement from the Coronado Police Department, the caller, who claimed to be suicidal, disconnected before providing his precise location.
Despite multiple attempts to reconnect, dispatchers used mobile phone location data to trace him to an area near the Hotel Del Coronado's main pool. Many police vehicles and air support were dispatched to the hotel. Officers eventually located the man on a balcony overlooking the pool, prompting a precautionary evacuation of guests in nearby rooms.
The situation was tense as the man initially refused to cooperate with law enforcement. However, after extensive efforts, officers were able to communicate with him, leading to his safe apprehension. He was subsequently transported to a hospital for a mental health evaluation. No firearm was found on him, and it was confirmed he was not a registered guest at the hotel.
Hotel Del Coronado's security enacted a modified lockdown during the incident out of an abundance of caution. The police clarified that the man posed no threat to others, focusing his distress solely on himself. Despite rumors on social media suggesting an active shooter situation, the authorities confirmed there was no such threat.
Eyewitness accounts from the scene painted a picture of heightened activity. One guest at the Del for the 116th Anniversary Charity Ball to benefit Rady Children's PICU reported, "At the Del tonight for Rady's gala and it was on lockdown looking for a shooter or someone with a gun. SDPD along with Coronado. Assault weapons dogs. Not sure if they got him as they were searching for a couple of hours. Lots of police activity at the Del." Another account mentioned friends of guests being unable to access their rooms due to the perceived threat of an active shooter.
The presence of law enforcement was further evidenced by reports of police vehicles and helicopters, with one observer noting, "Anyone know why helicopters are circling the Del? 4 SUV’s just drove down the beach sidewalk way," and another stating, "4 Police SUV’s raced down the beach sidewalk in front of our room. 8:15ish."
The Coronado Police Department expressed gratitude towards the San Diego Police Department's ABLE and K9 units for their assistance and thanked the hotel guests for their patience during this unsettling event.
Originally published on February 8, 2025.
