SALINAS, CA – A 26-year-old Canadian man has been sentenced to two consecutive life terms for the violent attempted murder of a Salinas woman he met on an online gaming platform.
The Ambush and Attack
The incident occurred just before 10:00 p.m. on November 25, 2024, at a home in Salinas. Investigators from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Devin Wolfgang Vanderhoef flew from North Vancouver, British Columbia, after becoming obsessed with the victim.
Posing as an Amazon delivery driver, Vanderhoef arrived at the door carrying a package that actually contained knives, handcuffs, and duct tape. When the victim’s boyfriend opened the door, Vanderhoef repeatedly stabbed him and forced his way inside.
Victims Fight Back
A violent struggle ensued as both victims fought for their lives:
- The woman stabbed Vanderhoef with a sharp object while defending her boyfriend.
- As the victims tried to flee, Vanderhoef pursued them outside, stabbing the woman and choking her.
- The male victim ultimately managed to disarm Vanderhoef and stab him multiple times, neutralizing the threat until deputies arrived.
All three individuals were hospitalized with serious injuries, and both victims survived the brutal attack.
Accomplice Arrested At Airport
Vanderhoef’s accomplice, Darius Avery Whyte, was arrested the following morning aboard a Canada-bound flight at San Jose Mineta International Airport. Whyte later pleaded guilty to assault charges and testified against Vanderhoef during the trial.
Severe Sentence Handed Down
Prosecutors with the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office stated that Vanderhoef confessed to planning the attack a month in advance after the woman tried to cut off communication.
Following a guilty verdict, a judge sentenced Vanderhoef to two consecutive life sentences, plus an additional five years for inflicting great bodily injury and weapon enhancements.
