Berkeley mountain bikers have a lot more to worry about than rain ruts, endos and mountain lions. It is alleged that Michael Vandeman of Berkeley has been hiking a fire-road trail above the campus of UC Berkeley with hand tools that he uses to attack riders. Michael has been arrested and UC Berkeley police have charged him with assault and vandalism.
UC Berkeley Police Photo.
The incidents (there were two attacks) took place on the upper section of the trail that runs from Grizzly Peak Boulevard to Strawberry Canyon, east of Memorial Stadium. While this trail is not open to mountain bikers, attacking their bikes with a saw (he is an alleged tire slasher) is not the brightest decision Mr. Vandeman could make.
UC Berkeley police have asked cyclists to come forward with any information of similar assaults. You can contact the University of California Police Department Criminal Investigation Bureau at (510) 642-0472 from 8AM-5PM, or (510) 642-6760 all other times.
UPDATE: Richard Jacinto sent in this update on the tire-slashing Michael Vandeman.
* Bail increased from $12.5K to $100K
* KPIX currently talking with other witnesses for possible interviews.
* Bail set by court: $100,000.00
* Charges include:
PC 245(A)(1) F FORCE/ADW NOT FIREARM:GBI
PC 245(A)1) M
PC 594(A) M VANDALISM
Assault with a deadly weapon
Great bodily injury
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