by San Francisco, CA — A 32-year-old man from Philadelphia was arrested Saturday night after San Francisco police discovered him in possession of nearly 100 tanks of suspected nitrous oxide inside a trailer parked near Golden Gate Park, authorities said.
Suspicious Trailer Draws Police Attention
Around 11 p.m., officers with the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) were patrolling near Fulton Street and 35th Avenue, on the north side of Golden Gate Park by Spreckels Lake, when they noticed a trailer with its door open.
Upon approaching the trailer, officers observed a man inside along with numerous metal tanks believed to contain nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as “laughing gas.”
Evidence Seized, Trailer Towed
Police seized approximately 100 metal tanks along with several balloons, a common delivery method for inhaling the gas recreationally. The trailer itself was towed as evidence.
The man inside, later identified as Thomas Siderio, 32, of Philadelphia, was arrested at the scene.
According to police, Siderio was booked into jail on charges related to:
- Possession of nitrous oxide with intent to ingest for intoxication
- Suspicion of distribution of nitrous oxide
Concerts and Crowds in the Area
The arrest came on the same weekend as Dead & Company hosted a series of concerts in Golden Gate Park, celebrating the 60th anniversary of The Grateful Dead. The area drew large crowds, prompting increased police presence throughout the park and surrounding neighborhoods.
While SFPD did not link Siderio directly to the concerts, officials emphasized their commitment to proactive enforcement during large-scale events.
“Our officers will continue to patrol all areas of Golden Gate Park and nearby neighborhoods,” the department said in a statement.
Nitrous Oxide: Recreational Risk and Legal Limits
Nitrous oxide, often used legally in medical and industrial settings, is illegal to possess or distribute for recreational use in many jurisdictions. Inhaling the gas can lead to oxygen deprivation, loss of consciousness, and long-term neurological damage.
California law prohibits the sale or distribution of nitrous oxide to any person intending to use it for intoxication, with potential criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Public health officials continue to warn against recreational use, particularly during concerts and festivals, where the gas is often abused for its short-lived euphoric effects.
Should there be stricter penalties for illegal possession of nitrous oxide at public events? Share your thoughts in the comments below at ColorfulClearwater.
