A Thonotosassa man allegedly threatened to shoot linemen working to restore power in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton on Tuesday afternoon.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) reports that the incident occurred around 3 p.m. at the intersection of McIntosh Road and Tomar Drive. Powerline crews were conducting repairs, causing a traffic delay in the area.
Kenneth Ray Velasco, 57, reportedly became impatient with the delay. Deputies say Velasco backed his vehicle into a utility pole and fence, causing an estimated $1,000 in damage, in an attempt to leave the scene.
When the powerline crew tried to prevent Velasco from leaving, he allegedly made repeated threats to shoot them. HCSO reports that Velasco then drove his vehicle toward the linemen, forcing them to jump out of the way to avoid being hit.
Sheriff Chad Chronister commented on the incident: “Linemen have been working tirelessly to restore power after the storm. For this person to threaten their lives and deliberately endanger them, all because of a traffic delay, shows a disturbing lack of regard for the safety of others and the critical work being done.”
Authorities located Velasco’s vehicle nearby and arrested him. He faces charges of aggravated assault and felony criminal mischief for vandalism of property.
This incident occurs as the region continues to recover from Hurricane Milton. In a separate case, another individual was recently charged for allegedly tying a dog to a pole on I-75 ahead of the hurricane.
Sheriff Chronister added, “We’re grateful no one was seriously hurt, and this suspect will face the full extent of the law for his egregious crimes.”
As restoration efforts continue across Hillsborough County, officials urge residents to remain patient and cooperative with emergency workers and utility crews.