Porterville, CA – A California man is behind bars after he allegedly doused his wife of 10 years in gasoline and set her on fire. The horrifying domestic violence incident took place in Porterville, located about 50 miles north of Bakersfield, and has left the victim suffering from severe burns. The suspect, 42-year-old Sean Hofmann, is facing charges of aggravated assault and arson.
Shocking Domestic Attack
On Friday afternoon, deputies with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office responded to a medical emergency just before 5:30 p.m. at the 24100 block of Avenue 120 in Porterville. When first responders arrived, they found Sheena Hofmann, the victim, suffering from severe burns to her arms, face, and torso. According to the Sheriff’s Office press release, Hofmann intentionally poured a highly flammable accelerant on or near his wife, setting her on fire.
The victim was airlifted to a nearby hospital and is currently listed in stable condition. However, she faces a long and painful recovery. Despite the physical pain, the emotional scars from the attack are expected to be even more challenging.
Son Recounts Horror, Describes Victim’s Character
The victim’s son, Michael Post, shared an emotional account of the attack during an interview. He explained that he received a phone call from his sister, who informed him of the chilling situation:
“She was like, ‘You need to get to mom’s house now. Your stepdad just covered her in gasoline and said he’s going to light her on fire,'” Post recalled.
Post, who had never witnessed any physical violence between his parents, noted that while Sheena Hofmann and Sean Hofmann often argued throughout their 10-year marriage, he was shocked by the brutality of the attack.
“My mom has always been the one who runs to people’s rescue,” Post explained. “Her home is where everybody goes to. It’s always like if anybody needs anything, they call her.” The victim, he added, constantly opened her home to friends and family, welcoming anyone who needed help. “She’s always the one who runs to people’s rescue,” he said with emotion.
The Couple’s History and Motive Remain Unclear
While Post spoke of the couple’s frequent arguments, the police did not release specific details about what led to the violent attack. The motive remains under investigation, but what is clear is that Sheena Hofmann’s act of kindness and desire to help others made her a beloved figure in her community.
Suspect Arrested, Held on $1 Million Bond
Following the attack, deputies took Sean Hofmann into custody and he was charged with aggravated assault and arson. He is currently being held at Tulare County Jail on a $1 million bond. Authorities have not disclosed whether Hofmann had any prior arrests or criminal history, but his actions on that day have left the community reeling.
A Long Road Ahead for the Victim
Although Sheena Hofmann is listed as being in stable condition, her journey to recovery will likely be long and painful. The severe burns she sustained to her arms, face, and torso are expected to require extensive medical treatment, including skin grafts, and possibly long-term care.
Her family, including her son, Michael, are rallying around her as she begins this difficult healing process. Post, in his GoFundMe campaign for his mother, expressed disbelief at the situation, writing: “I never dreamed something like this could happen in my family.” The outpouring of support from friends, family, and community members is a testament to Sheena’s character and the positive impact she had on those around her.
Call to Action
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