A bizarre scene unfolded outside a Riverside café on Monday afternoon when a 19-year-old woman attempted to grab a police officer’s holstered firearm during what began as a routine welfare check.
Police say the woman, identified as Marina Cole, had been pacing outside the café for nearly an hour, shouting at passing cars and arguing with people who weren’t actually there. Several customers called authorities out of concern for her safety.
When Officer Daniel Reyes approached to check on her, Marina allegedly became erratic, first accusing him of “reading her thoughts,” then suddenly lunging toward his duty belt.
According to police, the officer stepped back quickly, placing his hand over the holster and ordering Marina to stop. Witnesses say the entire encounter lasted fewer than ten seconds.
“She didn’t even get close,” said one café worker who watched from the doorway. “He moved like he was expecting it. She just kind of grabbed at the air.”
Marina continued to struggle, yelling incoherently, before two additional officers arrived and safely restrained her. No one was injured.
Police say the firearm was never unsecured and the retention holster functioned exactly as designed.
Marina was taken to a local hospital for mental-health evaluation, and officials say charges are unlikely as the incident appears to have stemmed from a psychological crisis rather than criminal intent.
A police spokesperson said:
“Situations like this are unpredictable, but officers responded with restraint and professionalism. The priority was keeping everyone — including the young woman — safe.”
Café patrons returned inside minutes later, though one joked,
“Next time I’m just getting my coffee to go.”
