Man arrested for violent, erratic attacks in Mariposa and Madera counties, deputies say

MARIPOSA COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — A man was arrested after police said he “terrorized” people in Mariposa and Madera counties.

The Mariposa County Sheriff's Office says it all started on Wednesday, August 21, when 40-year-old Anthony Mehlhaff visited a restaurant in the Buck Meadows area. They say he walked up to a pregnant employee and told her, “The spirits led me to you and your baby is mine. And when is your break because I will be waiting for you.”

According to officials, Mehlhaff then stole several drinks, attacked another employee and drove away in his car toward Yosemite National Park.

Park rangers attempted to stop Mehlhaff on Highway 41 within park boundaries, but authorities said he crashed his car near Fish Camp and stole a bicycle.

Officials said Mehlhaff later went into the kitchen of the Tenaya Lodge, grabbed a knife and threatened employees. He then reportedly walked to a nearby creek and took off his pants.

Shortly afterwards, according to officials, he entered the clubhouse of the Tenaya Lodge and threatened the people there. Mehlhaff is said to have attacked the branch manager and tried to kidnap him.

According to officials, Mehlhaff stole the manager's vehicle and drove on Highway 41 toward Oakhurst, where an incident occurred between the suspect and the driver of a Tesla.

Mehlhaff eventually caused an accident with the stolen vehicle on the highway just outside of Oakhurst and was taken into custody.

While being examined at a nearby hospital, the suspect reportedly began attacking Mariposa County officials.

Mehlhaff was remanded to the Mariposa County Jail on $100,000 bail.