On February 2nd, 2019, TCSO Ag Crimes Detectives were called to a local Ag Aviation Spraying Business for a report of a Crop Duster being hit by a bullet while in flight.

Detectives identified 55-year-old Roy Vander Velde as the suspect at a home in the 5300 block of Ave 304 in Visalia. Witnesses confirmed Van Velde made threats to shoot down the plane.

On Tuesday, Detectives served a search warrant at Van Velde’s home. They obtained statements and evidence which resulted in Van Velde’s arrest. He faces charges of attempted homicide, special allegation of negligent discharge of a firearm and shooting at an occupied aircraft. He is currently being held on a $500,000 bail.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office at 1-800-808-0488 or anonymously at tcso@tipnow.com or by text or voicemail at 559-725-4194.