It was fireworks — not gunfire — heard in Menlo Park on December 17

On Dec. 17, 2025, at about 3:43 pm, Menlo Park Police received a call reporting a person possibly armed with a gun in the area of Valparaiso Avenue and Hallmark Circle — and a report of possible shots fired.

Officers immediately responded to the area and did not locate anyone matching the description provided. During the preliminary investigation, the caller clarified they saw a suspicious person three hours prior to their call to police that could have been carrying a firearm but was uncertain.

Residents also reported there were fireworks heard in the area. Out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of public safety, the department requested assistance from outside agencies. Additional officers and an agency with a drone were deployed to conduct a thorough search of the surrounding area.

Following the coordinated response, the area has been declared all clear. No threats to public safety were identified. There was no evidence located on scene that would determine shots were fired.