Tesla Driver Arrested for Illegal Gun During NJ Traffic Stop

Police found a handgun with a high-capacity magazine during the vehicle search.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:58pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a firearm magazine and trigger guard, lit by a harsh flash against a dark background, conveying a sense of urgency and investigation around the illegal weapon.A recent traffic stop in Guttenberg, NJ uncovered an illegal handgun, exposing the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in removing dangerous firearms from the streets.Guttenberg Today

A 41-year-old North Bergen man was arrested after police found an illegal handgun inside his Tesla during a traffic stop in Guttenberg, New Jersey. The driver, Javier Martinez-Moncada, was pulled over for using a cell phone while driving and had an outstanding warrant, leading to the vehicle search that uncovered the Smith & Wesson firearm with a high-capacity magazine.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in removing illegal guns from the streets, especially in high-traffic areas. Guttenberg has seen a rise in traffic violations and property crimes in recent years, prompting increased police patrols in the area.

The details

Officer Lesley Avila stopped Martinez-Moncada's Tesla on April 14 for using a cell phone while driving. A records check revealed he had an outstanding $550 traffic warrant from Guttenberg Municipal Court. During the arrest, Martinez-Moncada told officers he had a firearm in the vehicle. A search uncovered a Smith & Wesson SD40 VE .40 caliber handgun with a high-capacity magazine containing 9mm ammunition.

  • The traffic stop occurred around 8:38 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
  • Martinez-Moncada was arrested and taken to Guttenberg Police Headquarters for processing.

The players

Javier Martinez-Moncada

A 41-year-old resident of North Bergen, New Jersey, who was arrested for unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and other firearm-related charges.

Officer Lesley Avila

A Guttenberg police officer who conducted the traffic stop that led to the discovery of the illegal firearm.

Officer Karleigh Noll

A Guttenberg police officer who arrived on the scene to assist with the traffic stop and arrest.

Frank Pelaez

The Guttenberg Police Chief, who provided details about the incident to the media.

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What they’re saying

“This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in removing illegal guns from the streets, especially in high-traffic areas.”

— Frank Pelaez, Guttenberg Police Chief

What’s next

Martinez-Moncada will appear in court in Jersey City to face the charges related to the illegal firearm found in his vehicle.

The takeaway

This traffic stop underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement and the continued need to address the proliferation of illegal guns, even in routine encounters. It also raises questions about the role of technology, like Tesla's self-driving features, in potentially enabling or obscuring criminal activity.