According to the court documents, the victim mentioned that Daffinson was furious with her for ending their relationship but never anticipated he would resort to such extreme violence. This highlights the often-unpredictable nature of domestic disputes and the urgent need for awareness and education on recognizing red flags in relationships.

The criminal complaint, reviewed by local Fox affiliate WLUK, asserts that Daffinson had gone to the victim’s residence post-breakup “to collect some of his personal belongings.” However, during this visit, he allegedly launched a violent attack on her. Witnesses reported that he went upstairs with a backpack and returned wielding a hatchet, indicating a premeditated intent to harm.

The victim recounted to authorities that she confronted Daffinson about his intentions with the axe and requested him to leave her home. According to ABC affiliate WBAY, this confrontation escalated quickly, as he struck her with the axe multiple times. In a horrifying turn of events, while she was bleeding from her injuries, he allegedly forced her to strip and attempted to sexually assault her, showcasing the extreme brutality of his actions.

At this critical juncture, the victim stated that Daffinson chillingly declared, “F–k it, I am just going to kill you, because I’ll be in jail anyway,” as noted in the complaint. This statement reflects a disturbing mindset often seen in perpetrators of domestic violence, where they feel a sense of entitlement to control, even at the cost of another’s life.

She was reportedly struck at least 25 more times with the hatchet, resulting in severe injuries including two broken arms, skull fractures, and numerous lacerations. The complaint further indicated that due to the extent of her injuries, she might require amputation of a finger, underlining the physical and emotional toll such violent incidents can inflict on victims.

According to reports from WBAY, the victim managed to survive by pleading for her life after the brutal attack. She told Daffinson that if he spared her life, she would deceive the police about the events by claiming that she had fallen down the stairs. This desperate plea led to Daffinson fleeing the scene, illustrating the instinctual drive to survive even in the direst conditions.

The woman promptly dialed 911, prompting a swift response from the Fond du Lac Police Department at 2:38 p.m. on June 22 at her residence in Wisconsin. According to the police report, she informed the dispatcher that she had “been attacked with an ax, was actively bleeding, and that the assailant had fled the scene.” This immediate action showcases the importance of timely reporting in emergencies.

Police characterized the victim in a press release as suffering from life-threatening injuries, which included “severe lacerations to her head, extremities, and back.” This detailed description emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for medical intervention in cases of violent assault.

The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed for safety reasons, received life-saving medical care at the scene and was then rushed to a local hospital, where she “underwent extensive surgery.” By Sunday evening, according to the release, she was listed in stable condition, highlighting the critical role that emergency medical services play in saving lives during violent incidents.

“This was a horrific act of violence, and our hearts are with the survivor as she begins her long road to recovery,” stated Chief of Police Aaron Goldstein in the release. His statement underscores the community’s collective trauma and the need for support systems for victims of violent crimes.

“The swift response by our Officers, the cooperation of our partner agencies, and the compassion shown throughout this investigation reflect the best of what public service stands for,” he continued. “As a community, we must come together to support individuals impacted by violence and remain committed to fostering healing, safety, and resilience for everyone involved.”

Just over four hours after the violent attack, law enforcement was able to track down the suspect’s vehicle in Germantown, Wisconsin. The department’s press release reported that Daffinson was apprehended and taken into custody following a brief pursuit, where he allegedly reached speeds of 110 mph, as detailed by Crime Online. This highlights the urgency and determination of law enforcement in apprehending suspects involved in violent crimes.

The suspect was found with blood on his clothing, according to police reports, while a search of his vehicle uncovered a hatchet with a 10-inch handle, a sheath, a steak knife, and a receipt for the hatchet’s purchase shortly before the assault. This evidence suggests premeditation and a calculated approach to the violent act, raising further concerns about the escalation of domestic violence.

“He had an errand to run and then went and bought the hatchet and other items from a Dollar General before going over there, so people can make their own inferences as to whether that was preplanned or not,” stated District Attorney Eric Toney during his first court appearance on Wednesday. This comment underscores the importance of thorough investigations in understanding the context of violent crimes.

At that appearance, Daffinson was formally charged with one count of attempted first-degree intentional murder, along with seven additional counts, as reported by Spectrum News 1. These include first-degree sexual assault, two counts of mayhem, first-degree reckless aggravated battery, felony intimidation of a victim, and false imprisonment. Each of these charges carries modifiers related to the use of a dangerous weapon and domestic abuse, reflecting the serious nature of his actions.

Daffinson is currently facing a potential sentence of up to 190 years in prison, although additional charges are anticipated as the investigation continues, according to Toney in court, labeling it the “most brutal assault I’ve seen as a district attorney.” This statement emphasizes the severity of the crime and the long-lasting impact such violence can have on victims and their families.

During his initial court appearance, Daffinson’s bond was set at $5 million. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 31, indicating that the legal proceedings will continue to unfold as the case develops.