KINGMAN, Ariz. – A three-year prison term has been ordered for a man who fired upon a citizen before firing more gunshots at the VFW Post in Dolan Springs in Nov., 2025. Kevin Barnes, 65, was sentenced Aug. 24 by Judge Billy Sipe.
Barnes pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm at a structure and for criminal damage for bullets that struck the VFW and a vehicle.
Barnes first fired one round at a Good Samaritan who pulled over to offer him assistance with repairing his flat tire in the vicinity of Ninth Street and Havasu Road. The man who was not injured subsequently followed Barnes before Barnes assumed a crouched position and fired at the VFW in the 1500 block of Pierce Ferry Road.
Barnes complied with commands and surrendered as deputies arrived on scene.
Defense attorney Bob Heieck said the episode was an aberration for his client, a magician who performs in Las Vegas, shows and fairs. Heieck said Barnes has learned that he needs treatment for mental health issues, and that he has responded well to medication while his case has been pending.
“I take full responsibility for my behavior,” Barnes said, apologizing to all involved and the community. “I now understand I have a mental health condition.”
Judge Sipe said it is fortunate that no one was hurt in what he called an active shooter case. But he said the mental meltdown is also clear.
“Obviously, the defendant was having a mental health breakdown, a manic episode when this occurred,” Sipe said. Sipe said two experts determined Barnes suffers bipolar, manic and psychotic disorders.
Sipe ordered that Barnes shall serve three years probation once he completes his prison sentence.
