Alleged Vortex Spring employee arrested for reportedly attacking deputy during Sol Fest

Update: Representatives for Vortex Spring denied the man was employed by Vortex Spring.

On the final night of Sol Fest, a Holmes County Sheriff’s Office deputy was reportedly attacked while on foot patrol by a Vortex Spring employee identified as James Michael Anders, HCSO said in a news release Monday, May 6. 

“Anderson, under the influence of multiple substances including PCP, LSD, ketamine, mushrooms, and ecstasy, assaulted the deputy and tried to grab his gun, resulting in serious injuries including a chunk bitten out of the deputy’s head,” the news release said. “Despite the deputy’s efforts and the use of a taser, Anderson remained combative until he was eventually restrained by several other deputies. Both the deputy and Anderson were transported to the hospital for treatment.”

Anderson will face charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest with violence.

Sol Fest, an electronic dance music festival, was held May 2-5 at Vortex Spring in Ponce de Leon.