Cancer Christ singer arrested in Yosemite violent spree

A dangerous escapade by a punk musician ended in arrest
A dangerous escapade by a punk musician ended in arrest
Images source: © Facebook, mariposa county sheriff’s office
Paulina Antoniak

25 August 2024 13:22

Anthony Mehlhaff, the 40-year-old vocalist of the hardcore punk band Cancer Christ, was arrested wearing only his underwear after causing panic among visitors to Yosemite National Park in California. His escapade included assault, attempted kidnapping, and robbery before initiating a wild chase in a stolen car from police, reports the Daily Mail.

The series of events began around 1:45 PM Local Time when Mehlhaff allegedly assaulted a pregnant waitress by touching her belly and making alarming statements. He then stole some drinks, attacked a restaurant employee, and headed toward the national park.

Escalation of violence and vandalism

The singer's antics evolved into a series of unpredictable and dangerous behaviours, including threats to employees after invading the Tenaya kitchen. The musician behaved erratically. He stripped down to his underwear and claimed customers would be in danger.

According to the Mariposa County Sheriff's Office, Mehlhaff caused panic by attempting to kidnap a store manager and then fleeing in a stolen vehicle. Additionally, during his escape, he engaged in aggressive driving towards another driver.

Arrest and aftermath

Ultimately, Mehlhaff was apprehended after a series of dangerous maneuvers on the road, and a smoke grenade was found in his vehicle. Currently, the man is in custody with bail set at $100,000 (CAD 135,000).

The charges he faces include, among others, vandalism, vehicle theft, reckless driving, kidnapping, theft, burglary, assault, resisting officers, and battery.

Read also: A brutal attack in the middle of the night. She was coming back from work when he strangled her and dragged her into the bushes.

The community and law enforcement breathed a sigh of relief after his arrest. Mariposa County Sheriff Jeremy Briese emphasized the danger posed by the musician's actions to residents and tourists while also expressing satisfaction with the authorities' quick and effective response.

See also