Wilmington police: Traffic stop nets stolen gun, ammo

A traffic stop in Wilmington led to the seizure of a stolen gun and the weapons arrest of the man who had it, city police said Wednesday.

Shortly before 2 p.m. Tuesday, Patrolman Robert Dirocco stopped a car for a traffic violation in the first block of W. 29th St., Sgt. Andrea Janvier said.

A check revealed that city police wanted to interview driver Tasia Richmond, 22, and passenger Lamar Massas, 24, both of Wilmington, as part of an ongoing investigation, Janvier said.

Police found that a handgun – identified as a 10MM, Colt Double Eagle MKII, Series 90 – loaded with eight rounds, was being kept in the car, she said.

The gun was reported stolen two years ago out of New Castle County police jurisdiction, she added.

Massas was charged with firearm and ammunition possession by a prohibited person, carrying a concealed deadly weapon and receiving a stolen firearm.

He was committed to Young Correctional Institution after failing to post $55,000 cash bail.

Police did not disclose what past offense led to Massas being prohibited from having guns and ammunition.

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