Police Respond to Shots Fired Incident: Suspect in Custody

The Salina Police Department (SPD) responded to a report of shots fired in the 700 block of Fairdale Road on April 5th, shortly after 5:00 pm. Witnesses reported hearing 3-4 gunshots and observed a dark gray Dodge SUV driving erratically in the area. The driver was seen leaving the scene at a high speed, and spotted driving recklessly down Magnolia Street, with one witness reporting the driver holding a handgun.

Authorities traced the license plate of the vehicle to a residence on the 900 block of South 2nd Street, where they located the SUV. Upon arrival, officers found a 27-year-old female and children aged 3, 5, and 7 inside the house. The woman was instructed to leave with the children for their safety.

Negotiators established contact with Zachary VanBebber, a 38-year-old male of Salina, just after 6:00 pm. The suspect surrendered to authorities at around 7:30 pm and was taken into custody without further incident.

Following the arrest, a search warrant was executed on both the residence and the vehicle, resulting in the recovery of two handguns and several shell casings. VanBebber faces multiple charges, including criminal use of a weapon, unlawful discharge of a firearm in city limits, possession of a firearm while under the influence, driving while suspended, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.