Canadian Gamer Sentenced to Life for Attempted Murder After Amazon Delivery Ruse in California

Devin Wolfgang Venderhoff, a 26-year-old gamer from Vancouver, Canada, was sentenced to two consecutive life terms after attempting to murder a woman he met online and her partner in California. According to the Monterey County District Attorney's Office, Venderhoff developed an obsession with the woman through online gaming. When their relationship soured and she tried to distance herself, he planned an attack for about a month.

In November 2024, Venderhoff flew from Canada to Monterey County with his friend Darius White. Before the attack, he purchased knives, handcuffs, and duct tape, and stalked the woman to her workplace and home in Salinas. On the night of the assault, he impersonated an Amazon delivery person and arrived at her door carrying a package containing weapons and restraints. When her partner opened the door, Venderhoff forced his way inside and stabbed him.

Both victims managed to escape the house, but Venderhoff pursued them and continued the attack outside. During the struggle, the partner subdued Venderhoff, disarmed him, and stabbed him several times. Despite this, Venderhoff attacked the woman again as she tried to re-enter the house, choking her until she struggled to breathe. The victims held on until police arrived. Both victims were seriously injured, and Venderhoff required medical treatment for stab wounds.

Venderhoff admitted to planning the attack for about a month and stated his intent was "really to kill someone." His accomplice, Darius White, was arrested at San Jose airport while attempting to return to Canada. White pled guilty to assault and testified against Venderhoff. A jury convicted Venderhoff of two counts of attempted premeditated murder and residential burglary. He received two consecutive life sentences plus five additional years for weapon use and causing serious injury.

Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto highlighted the case as a warning about the dangers of seemingly innocent online relationships that can escalate into violent obsessions. She urged parents and community members to stay informed and vigilant to protect themselves and children from similar threats.