An Indian origin entrepreneur has been arrested in California after a shocking car crash linked to an alleged attempt to start a fire. Police took him into custody after a tense standoff that began at Garrod Farms Estate Winery & Stables in Saratoga.
Sequence of events at the winery
Berri Vikram, 42, was caught by local police on December 8. Staff said he tried to start a fire on the property. When they approached him, he allegedly threw a wine bottle that shattered near them and then fled in his white Tesla.
Alleged attacks and crash
Police said he rammed two parked vehicles and pushed one over the edge before crashing his Tesla down a slope. Officers later found him locked inside the car, refusing to surrender despite repeated warnings.
Police response and arrest
Officers used pepper spray and pepper ball rounds to force him out and end the standoff. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation and then booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail on assault and resisting arrest charges. No major injuries were reported.
Vikram’s professional background
Vikram founded the mental health platform BetterLYF Wellness. He also works as an Executive Director at the Gurugram based agri tech firm FieldKing. His professional record has added more attention to the case.
Case review underway
The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s office is reviewing the case. Details about his motive and upcoming court proceedings are still awaited.
