Man Stabbed Over Pokémon Cards
Pokemon Center Singapore at Jewel Changi Airport. Photo by A339 under CC BY-SA 4.0.
If you think waiting in line for a new video game or concert ticket can get intense, imagine the frenzy over rare Pokémon cards — so intense that it erupted into a violent stabbing outside a GameStop in Colma, California. On the morning of July 5, what was supposed to be a routine restock of coveted Pokémon trading cards turned into a brutal brawl, leaving one man hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. This shocking incident shines a harsh light on how obsession over collectibles can spiral into real-world violence.
The Scene: A Flash Restock and a Line on Edge
It was just after 9 a.m. when a crowd gathered outside the GameStop at 4929 Junipero Serra Boulevard, eagerly waiting for a restock of Pokémon cards. These cards, especially rare editions, have become hot commodities, fetching high prices online and attracting both passionate fans and scalpers looking to cash in. The stakes were high, and tensions were palpable.
Among the crowd were two men from San Francisco — 49-year-old Miguel Orellanas-Flores and 27-year-old Isaiah Calles. According to police reports, the trouble began when Orellanas-Flores "tried to cut in line," according to PEOPLE, bypassing others who had been waiting patiently. This move sparked a verbal confrontation with a man wearing a black hoodie emblazoned with Pikachu, the franchise's unofficial mascot.
The Violent Turn: Mason Jar Assault and Stabbing
What started as a heated argument quickly escalated into a physical altercation. Police allege that Orellanas-Flores struck the victim in the back of the head with a glass mason jar, shattering it on impact. The shards of glass then became weapons in the hands of Calles, who allegedly stabbed the victim multiple times with the broken pieces.
Bystanders watched in horror as the fight spilled onto the sidewalk, with frantic attempts to intervene. According to the New York Post, one witness even shouted about children watching the chaos unfold. The victim sustained severe lacerations and multiple stab wounds, injuries serious enough to be described as "life-threatening," are reported by PEOPLE. Emergency responders arrived promptly, providing medical aid before transporting the victim to a local hospital, where he remains in stable condition.
The Aftermath: Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
Following the attack, both suspects fled the scene in separate vehicles — a Honda and a Toyota — according to PEOPLE. However, the victim reportedly managed to snap photos of the suspects' cars, including license plates, which proved crucial in tracking down the assailants. Law enforcement located the Honda near Junipero Serra Boulevard and Serramonte Boulevard, while the Toyota was found at Gellert Park in Daly City.
According to the New York Post, Orellanas-Flores and Calles were arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including assault with a deadly weapon, assault with a deadly weapon causing great bodily injury, battery with serious bodily injury, and conspiracy to commit a crime. They were booked into the San Mateo County Jail.
Why Did a Pokémon Card Restock Turn So Deadly?
You might wonder how a simple line for trading cards could lead to such violence. The answer lies in the intense fandom and scalper pressure surrounding Pokémon cards. These collectibles have evolved beyond childhood nostalgia into a lucrative market, with rare cards sometimes selling for thousands of dollars. The demand fuels competition, and for some, the desire to secure these prized items can override reason and civility.
The incident in Colma is not isolated. Earlier in 2025, a restock at a Los Angeles Costco reportedly sparked violent fights among shoppers, and in Detroit, masked thieves wielding hammers stole thousands of dollars worth of rare Pokémon cards. The high stakes and the gambling-like thrill of obtaining a perfect card create a volatile environment where tempers can flare dangerously.
A Cautionary Tale for Collectors and Fans
This violent episode serves as a sobering reminder that obsession over collectibles can have real-world consequences. Whether you're a casual fan or a serious collector, it's important to keep perspective and prioritize safety over possession. The thrill of the hunt should not jeopardize someone's well-being.
If you find yourself in a long line for a coveted item, remember that patience and respect go a long way. And if you witness escalating tensions, stepping back or alerting authorities can prevent a situation from spiraling out of control.
What You Can Learn From This Incident
- Obsession can escalate quickly: The desire to get ahead in line led to a violent confrontation that could have been avoided.
- Collectibles carry real-world risks: High-value items attract not only fans but also scalpers and criminals, increasing the potential for conflict.
- Stay calm and respectful: In heated situations, keeping your cool can prevent violence.
- Be aware of your surroundings: If you see trouble brewing, it's safer to remove yourself or seek help.
- Document if safe: The victim's quick thinking in photographing the suspects' vehicles helped law enforcement make arrests.
Final Thoughts
The Pokémon card stabbing in Colma serves as a sobering reminder of how passion for collectibles can cross the line into danger. As you follow the latest trends or chase after rare finds, keep in mind that the value of human life exceeds any card or item. Let this incident be a cautionary tale — one that encourages you to enjoy your hobbies safely and responsibly.
References: Man Stabbed After Brawl Breaks Out in Line for Pokémon Cards: Police | Two Pokémon card fanatics arrested over stabbing in line at California GameStop
