Federal authorities have charged a father and son with kidnapping two U.S. Forest Service workers in a remote area of Northern California, according to newly released court documents. Joseph Charles Henrichsen, 49, and his 23-year-old son, Phoenix Henrichsen, face federal charges for allegedly abducting the biologists at gunpoint on July 16.
The incident unfolded near Gumboot Lake Campground in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, where the two biologists were conducting research on frog habitats. Court documents allege Joseph Henrichsen approached the workers armed with an AR-15-style rifle, ordered them to raise their hands, and zip-tied their wrists. He then reportedly forced them to walk to a nearby camping trailer, where his son, Phoenix, allegedly helped clear space inside.
Investigators claim Joseph Henrichsen later separated the victims. He allegedly used one biologist's cellphone to make calls, including leaving a voicemail for an acquaintance stating, "I’ve taken two fed biologists hostage from the Forest Service. I’ve got live rounds ready… I’d like to have you send me a fed investigator, preferably from the FBI."
During the protracted standoff, which lasted into the early morning hours of July 17, Joseph Henrichsen allegedly refused requests from FBI negotiators to release the captives. The affidavit also states he claimed to have a grenade and threatened to use it if law enforcement moved closer. Meanwhile, Phoenix Henrichsen remained inside the trailer with the second captive, allegedly keeping watch.
The crisis concluded around 1 a.m. on July 17, when Joseph Henrichsen agreed to release the biologists one at a time. Both were safely freed, and Phoenix surrendered to authorities shortly after 2:30 a.m., followed by his father. The events prompted a significant response from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and SWAT teams.