Man arrested after allegedly trying to blow up propane tank in business

A Pahrump man was arrested Wednesday after allegedly attempting to use a propane tank as a bomb at a local business.

Jeffrey Vonalst was taken into custody by the Nye County Sheriff’s Office and charged with preliminary counts of attempting to use explosive device to damage building, bomb threat, assault with a deadly weapon, under the influence of a controlled substance and resisting peace officer.

On Wednesday morning sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to business located on the 950 block of West Wilson Road in reference to a bomb threat.

Once on the scene deputies learned that Vonalst entered the building with a propane tank and threatened to blow up the facility up, according to police.

Witnesses told deputies that Vonalst opened the valve to the propane tank and attempted to ignite the tank.

While interviewing witnesses, deputies heard a loud banging noise and a man yelling for help.

Deputies discovered two males fighting in the courtyard area of the building.

Vonalst was actively trying to ignite a propane tank with a lighter as the altercation was taking place, police said.

While attempting to place Vonalst into custody he actively resisted arrest but was eventually taken into custody.

Deputies noted that Vonalst appeared to exhibit signs and symptoms that were consistent with methamphetamine use.

Mr. Vonalst was transported to Desert View Hospital to be treated for injuries sustained during the fight.

A warrant was obtained for Vonalst’s blood for analysis, then he was transported to Nye County Detention Center for booking. His bail was unavailable.

Contact reporter Mick Akers at makers@pvtimes.com. Follow @mickakers on Twitter.