Shots Fired Report Closes Downtown Santa Barbara Street

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A report of gunshots heard in downtown Santa Barbara closed a section of Bath Street on Thursday afternoon, January 29, 2026. Police officers responded to the intersection of Bath and Carrillo Streets and were seen investigating the area in front of Noah's Anchorage and down Curley Street off Figueroa. The Santa Barbara Police Department issued a public alert for residents and motorists to stay away from the area due to an active investigation, and the roadway was reopened around 5:00 p.m.

Why it matters

Incidents of gun violence in downtown Santa Barbara are rare, and this event has raised concerns about public safety in the popular tourist and shopping district. The police response and street closure disrupted local businesses and traffic in the area.

The details

According to reports, a witness on the scene said that over ten police officers responded and closed down Bath Street from Carrillo to Figueroa Streets. Officers were seen investigating the area in front of Noah's Anchorage and down Curley Street off Figueroa, but no suspects were apprehended. The police did not provide further details when asked about the incident.

• At 3:10 p.m. on January 29, 2026, police responded to the intersection of Bath and Carrillo Streets.
• The roadway was reopened around 5:00 p.m. on January 29, 2026.

What’s next

The Santa Barbara Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident and has not yet released any additional details or information about potential suspects.