On April 29, 2016, deputies were dispatched to Forest Road 708 (aka Fossil Creek Road), at the 502 junction in the Fossil Creek area, regarding vandalism to a backhoe. The owner of the vehicle told deputies the backhoe was parked at the location on Wednesday, April 27th around 4 PM, and the damage was discovered the morning of April 29th, just before 9 AM.
The tractor had been shot more than 80 times with 9mm bullets. All the tires were flat and it was estimated that at least 50 rounds went through the engine compartment and cab. The owner of the backhoe is a contractor working for the US Forest Service building gates in the area. The road is posted closed at Hwy 260 and the backhoe was parked across the road. Deputies did recover evidence at the scene and surveyed campers in the area. No suspects have been arrested at this time.
Deputies are seeking anyone with information on this vandalism to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 928-771-3260 or Yavapai Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232. The caller who provides a tip to Silent Witness leading to the arrest of a suspect or suspects becomes eligible for a cash reward. Refer to case 16-015392.