Controversy Erupts Over Fenced-Off Access to Thornton State Beach

Luke Brugnara, a notorious Bay Area fraudster recently released from federal prison, has erected an 8-foot chain-link fence that obstructs public access to a popular pathway leading to Thornton State Beach in San Mateo County. This action has drawn significant attention and criticism from local officials and beachgoers alike. San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa confirmed Brugnara's identity and the implications of his actions, stating that the community is in disbelief over the sudden restriction of access to their recreational area.

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’

Brugnara, 62, is a former real estate developer with a criminal history that includes convictions for mail and wire fraud, tax evasion, and making threats against witnesses. He served approximately nine years in federal prison and was released in August 2025. His past includes high-profile real estate dealings in San Francisco and a failed attempt to acquire a gambling license for the Silver City Casino in Las Vegas, which was denied due to allegations of threats and misconduct.

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’

The fence, which is accompanied by a threatening sign warning that trespassers will be shot, has sparked outrage among local residents. Canepa remarked on the drastic change in the community's access to the beach, likening the area to a prison. In response to the situation, the Daly City Council is set to discuss whether to refer the matter to the California Coastal Commission, which specializes in beach access issues.

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’

Critics have condemned Brugnara's actions as an infringement on public rights. The crude signage and the threat of violence have heightened community concerns about safety and accessibility. Local residents have expressed disbelief that a private landowner could so brazenly restrict access to a public beach area.

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’

Brugnara was briefly detained in San Mateo County Jail on January 22, 2026, but it remains unclear whether this arrest was directly related to the fence incident. The lack of clarity surrounding his recent legal troubles adds to the complexity of the situation.

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’

“They can’t believe their recreation area, within two weeks, has become San Quentin,” — David Canepa, San Mateo County Supervisor

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’

“Its amazing how he’s just put these fences up and said, ‘Sorry, no access for you.'” — Sign on the fence erected by Luke Brugnara

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’

The Daly City Council's upcoming meeting will determine the next steps regarding the fence and potential actions to restore public access to Thornton State Beach. The involvement of the California Coastal Commission may provide a pathway for addressing the community's concerns and ensuring compliance with public access laws.

Landowner who fenced off trail to Bay Area beach and threatened to shoot ‘trespassers’ is notorious fraudster known as ‘Lucky’