FOND DU LAC, WI – A 34-year-old Wisconsin man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly attacking his ex-girlfriend with an ax, leaving her with over 25 hack wounds during a confrontation at her home.
Hayden Daffinson was arrested on Sunday and charged with attempted first-degree intentional homicide, domestic abuse, and use of a dangerous weapon. The attack occurred on June 22, 2025, at a residence in the 300 block of East Merrill Avenue in Fond du Lac.
The Attack
At 2:38 p.m., police responded to a 911 call made by the victim, a 38-year-old woman, who reported that she had been attacked with an ax and was actively bleeding. She told dispatch that the suspect had fled the scene.
Upon arrival, officers found the woman with serious lacerations to her head, extremities, and back. They immediately began providing life-saving care while securing the scene.
The victim was transported to St. Agnes Hospital and later airlifted to Theda Medical Center in Neenah, where she underwent extensive surgery. Despite the severity of her injuries, she was reported to be in stable condition by Sunday evening.
Investigation and Arrest
Following an intensive investigation, officers identified Hayden Daffinson as the suspect. His vehicle was located near Germantown, Wisconsin, around 7:00 p.m., and a brief pursuit ensued. Daffinson was eventually captured and taken to Froedtert Hospital for a medical evaluation.
According to court documents, the victim told authorities that she had recently broken up with Daffinson before the attack. He had been at her house to collect some personal belongings when he allegedly assaulted her.
Details of the Attack
During the assault, Daffinson reportedly sexually assaulted the victim before saying, “F— it, I’m just going to kill you, because I’m going to prison anyway.”
He then allegedly attacked her with the ax, hacking her at least 25 times. The victim sustained multiple skull fractures, broken arms, and severe wounds to her head, hands, and back.
The victim later told police that Daffinson was upset because she had ended their relationship, but she never expected him to turn violent. After the assault, the victim pleaded for her life, promising Daffinson she would not report the attack to police if he let her live and would say she fell down the stairs.
Pursuit and Community Response
During his escape, Daffinson reached speeds exceeding 110 mph, according to authorities. He was eventually apprehended and taken into custody.
“This was a horrific act of violence, and our hearts are with the survivor as she begins her long road to recovery,” said Chief of Police Aaron Goldstein. He praised the swift response of officers and their collaboration with partner agencies during the investigation.
Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney called the attack one of the most brutal he had ever encountered, stating, “This is the most brutal attack I’ve seen as a district attorney.”
Charges and Bond
Daffinson is currently being held in Fond du Lac County Jail on a $5 million bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on July 31.
