Wisconsin – In a shocking and savage act of domestic violence in Wisconsin, a 34-year-old man, identified as H. Daffinson, is facing a slew of serious felony charges after indecently assaulting and then hacking his 38-year-old ex-girlfriend at least 25 times with a hatchet, leaving her with grave injuries to her head, arms, and back. Fortunately, the victim survived the attack but was airlifted to a trauma center where she underwent emergency surgery and remains in recovery. Daffinson was arrested hours after the attack and has been charged with attempted first-degree intentional homicide, with additional modifiers for domestic abuse and use of a dangerous weapon, according to court records reviewed by authorities.
The incident occurred on June 22, 2025, when police responded to a harrowing 911 call around 2:38 p.m. from a woman. The caller, later identified as the victim, reported she had “been attacked with a hatchet, was actively bleeding,” and that the attacker had fled the scene. When officers arrived, they found the woman with severe injuries to her head, arms, and back, with visible signs of trauma consistent with a bladed weapon. Officers immediately rendered aid while securing the area. Paramedics rushed her to a hospital before she was airlifted to a medical center for more advanced care. She underwent extensive surgery and, against all odds, survived. She was listed in stable condition.
Investigators quickly identified Daffinson as the primary suspect. According to a criminal complaint, Daffinson arrived at the woman’s home that day under the pretense of collecting his personal belongings after she had recently ended their relationship. Once inside, he indecently assaulted her and then chillingly said, “I’m just going to kill you, because I’m going to prison anyway.” He then retrieved a hatchet and hacked her at least 25 times, leaving her with multiple skull fractures, both arms broken, and numerous deep wounds to her back, hands, and head. Despite the ferocity of the attack, the woman remained conscious long enough to plead for her life, promising not to contact police and even offering to lie and say she fell down the stairs.
By 7:00 p.m. the same evening, police located Daffinson’s vehicle. He attempted to flee, reportedly reaching speeds of over 110 mph during the pursuit. He was eventually apprehended without incident and taken to a hospital for a medical evaluation before being transferred to the county jail, where he remains on $5 million bond. A search of the crime scene and surrounding areas led investigators to recover the bloodied hatchet Daffinson used in the attack.
Police Chief A. Goldstein condemned the attack in a public statement, calling it a “horrific act of violence” and commending the quick response of officers and neighboring agencies. “Our hearts are with the survivor as she begins her long road to recovery,” he said. Daffinson’s next court appearance is scheduled for July 31, where further legal proceedings will continue. As the community reels from the violence, law enforcement and advocacy groups have called for continued support for victims of domestic abuse and for justice to be delivered swiftly and decisively in the courtroom.
