Introduction to the Discovery
Authorities investigating an illegal marijuana farm operation at a Northern California home discovered "an alarming cache of illegal firearms and ammunition" in a secret underground bunker accessed through a 100-foot-long tunnel.
Michael Jay Kamfolt, 40, was arrested Jan. 20 on nearly a dozen firearm related charges after the California Highway Patrol found an array of weapons while serving a search warrant at his Anderson home, including assault-style weapons, a sawed-off shotgun, stolen firearms and roughly 10,000 rounds of ammunition. Officers also seized body armor and 30 high-capacity magazines.
The Investigation
The CHP received a tip in December 2025 about a suspected illegal marijuana operation at a property in Anderson, roughly two hours north of Sacramento. After obtaining a search warrant, authorities conducted an aerial surveillance of the property, which helped confirm the information received, the CHP said.
They continued to investigate for a month before executing a search warrant on the property on Jan. 20. Authorities discovered the bunker equipped with all the necessary supplies to cultivate marijuana, including electricity, ventilation and a concrete floor with built-in drainage, according to the CHP.
The Discovery of the Secret Bunker
Authorities also seized 13 firearms at the scene, including a sawed-off shotgun and three AR-15-style assault rifles, one of which had its serial number removed. Two of the firearms had been reported stolen — in 1978 and 2016, respectively. Additionally, they confiscated 30 high-capacity magazines, approximately 10,000 rounds of ammunition, and four bulletproof vests.
Photos released by authorities show rows of firearms, green metal ammunition boxes, and bulletproof vests, one of which had the word “villain” emblazoned across the chest.
Charges and Aftermath
Kamfolt was booked on several weapons-related charges, including possession of an assault rifle, possession of a firearm with an altered serial number, and manufacturing a ghost gun.
According to Shasta County jail records, Kamfolt was no longer in custody as of Tuesday.
“This operation went far beyond an illegal grow," CHP Northern Division Chief John Pinoli said in a news release. "The combination of a hidden bunker and an alarming cache of illegal firearms and ammunition highlights the threat posed to public safety. I am proud of the tireless work of our Northern Division personnel that led to this arrest.”
Conclusion
The discovery of the secret bunker and the array of illegal firearms and ammunition in Northern California highlights the importance of continued vigilance and investigation into illegal activities. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the use of advanced surveillance techniques were crucial in uncovering this operation and bringing the perpetrator to justice.
FAQs
Q: What was discovered in the secret bunker in Northern California?
A: Authorities discovered an array of illegal firearms and ammunition, including assault-style weapons, a sawed-off shotgun, stolen firearms, and roughly 10,000 rounds of ammunition.
Q: Who was arrested in connection with the discovery?
A: Michael Jay Kamfolt, 40, was arrested on nearly a dozen firearm-related charges.
Q: What was the significance of the discovery?
A: The discovery highlights the threat posed to public safety by the combination of a hidden bunker and an alarming cache of illegal firearms and ammunition.
