According to Firearm Chronicles
Alameda County gun store Solar Tactical has closed its doors for the time being, after remaining open for several days despite a “shelter-in-place” order in the county. Owner Mike Addis reluctantly made the decision after being threatened with prosecution for keeping the doors open, but says he still believes his store and others are essential businesses that need to be operating during the state of emergency. “A gun store is an essential business because it’s a Second-Amendment right,” explained Solar Tactical owner Mike Addis. “A lot of our customers are business owners and they’re concerned about looting or they’re concerned about their personal safety in the house,” Addis added.
Addis said business has been going through the roof and most customers are first-time buyers. He felt unfairly targeted and singled out by the sheriff. “Definitely a mixed message. Up and down California, some shops are open, some are not open. Big 5 can sell guns right now. Walmart can sell guns right now,” Addis said.
KPIX-TV spoke to one of Addis’s customers on Friday who backed up the gun store owner’s argument. “There’s been a home invasion two doors down from where I lived,” said Joshua Boothby, who stopped by Solar Tactical to pick up a handgun. Boothby had purchased the gun 10 days ago. And it was ready for pickup after the required cooling-off period and background check. He arrived at the store Friday afternoon to find it closed.