Anthony Mehlhaff, frontman of the hardcore punk rock band “Cancer Christ,” went on a disturbing rampage in two California counties, terrorizing tourists and workers around Yosemite National Park. The 40-year-old musician allegedly began his rampage at a local restaurant in Mariposa County, where he confronted a pregnant waitress and told her that her baby belonged to him. He then stole drinks and assaulted another employee before fleeing to Yosemite National Park, where he eventually crashed his car near Fish Camp.
Following the crash, Mehlhaff took his shirt off and handed it to a witness, telling them that they would want to keep it because he was going to be famous. Police discovered an Enola Gay smoke grenade in his car, and he proceeded to steal a bicycle and enter a nearby lodge where he threatened workers with a knife. He eventually stripped down to his underwear and told customers to leave under threat of danger. He then assaulted and attempted to kidnap the manager before stealing his car and engaging in extreme road rage behavior with a Tesla on Highway 41.
After ramming into the Tesla, Mehlhaff was chased by sheriff’s deputies and eventually crashed the stolen car in Oakhurst. He was detained and transported to a hospital for medical clearance, during which he assaulted a sheriff’s deputy. Mehlhaff was then taken to Mariposa County Jail and charged with vandalism, vehicle theft, reckless driving, kidnapping, burglary, and robbery, all of which are felonies. It was reported that he had a recorded message on his phone telling law enforcement and mental health specialists to stop contacting him.
The band “Cancer Christ” mixes Christian, satanic, and reptilian imagery in an intentionally sacrilegious manner. Mehlhaff, who refers to himself as “Saint Anthony,” is known for his extreme beliefs and provocative lyrical content in their music. Their albums and singles, such as “God Hates Cops,” “Satan is a B–ch,” and “God is Violence,” exemplify their controversial messages. The band’s website, which is now private, claimed they were on a holy mission to make politicians, pedophiles, and police officers suffer slowly through their unique brand of Reptilian Power Violence music.
Mehlhaff’s bizarre and criminal behavior shocked both law enforcement and fans of the band, leading to his arrest and subsequent detention. His actions painted a troubling picture of the frontman and raised questions about his mental state and the influence of his band’s music on his behavior. The incident around Yosemite National Park left many shaken and concerned about the potential dangers of individuals who may be influenced by extreme ideologies and engage in violent acts. Authorities were left to manage the aftermath of Mehlhaff’s rampage and address the impact it had on the community and the individuals involved.
