Army Veteran Accused of Violent Break-In at Beanie Babies Founder’s Estate Claims Pop Star Controlled Him
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — A Nevada Army veteran accused of a violent home invasion at the estate of billionaire Ty Warner, founder of the Beanie Babies brand, told investigators he believed pop star Katy Perry was controlling him during a severe mental health episode, according to court testimony.
Russell Maxwell Phay, 42, of Henderson, Nevada, faces a slew of felony charges including first-degree attempted murder with premeditation and deliberation, kidnapping, residential burglary, assault likely to produce great bodily injury, and resisting a peace officer, as outlined by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Prosecutors also revealed a separate assault charge related to an earlier incident the same day involving a second victim who was found unconscious, with a special allegation for personally inflicting great bodily injury.
Deputies responded around 4:30 p.m. on December 21 to reports of a possible home invasion or vehicle theft at Warner’s estate on Fairway Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered a female victim outside the residence suffering from severe injuries that required emergency medical attention. Warner himself was inside the home during the break-in but managed to escape and alert authorities, according to the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office.
Law enforcement quickly established a perimeter and called in additional resources including air support, armored vehicles, and crisis negotiators amid fears of further victims or hostages. Phay was eventually found barricaded inside an upstairs bathroom. After refusing commands to surrender, he attempted to flee by climbing out a second-story window but was apprehended by deputies and a Sheriff’s K-9 unit.
During a preliminary hearing, Detective Matthew Maxwell of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office testified that Phay told investigators he believed he was married to Katy Perry and that the pop star was controlling his actions. The veteran reportedly shared details of this delusion amid what authorities described as a severe mental health crisis. Family members had warned officials about Phay’s deteriorating mental state days before the incident.
Phay’s case highlights the complex intersection of mental health issues and violent crime, raising questions about the adequacy of support systems for veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs continues to emphasize the importance of mental health care access for former service members.
The investigation remains active as authorities continue to gather evidence and assess Phay’s mental condition. The charges carry significant penalties, reflecting the gravity of the alleged offenses. This incident has drawn public attention due to the high-profile nature of the victim and the disturbing claims made by the accused.
For more information on mental health resources for veterans, visit the VA Mental Health Services website. Updates on the case will be provided as it progresses through the Santa Barbara County court system.
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