VALLEY, CA – A Tulare County man is behind bars, accused of a horrifying act of violence against his wife, according to authorities. The woman’s son remains by her side at a Bakersfield hospital, where she is in an induced coma.
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest, detailing the disturbing incident that left Sheena Hofmann with severe burns. Her son, Michael, expressed disbelief and heartache over the situation, stating he could never forgive his stepfather for the alleged crime.
Michael recounted receiving a frantic call from his sister, urging him to rush to their mother’s home. The call detailed how their stepfather, Sean Hofmann, allegedly doused Sheena with gasoline and threatened to set her on fire.
Deputies responded swiftly to the residence on Avenue 120 near Porterville around 5:30 p.m. Friday. They found Sheena with critical injuries to her face, arms, and torso. Michael said the violence was unimaginable, noting his mother’s home was a haven for those in need.
Authorities confirmed the suspect’s arrest, stating he intentionally poured an accelerant on Sheena. Michael watched as his mother was airlifted to Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. The couple had been married for a decade and shared a blended family of seven children.
Michael noted that while he never observed physical violence between his mother and stepfather, arguments were frequent. Ashlee Wolf, director of the Marjaree Mason Center, emphasized the importance of feeling safe in a relationship, highlighting the many forms domestic violence can take.
Wolf advised those feeling unsafe to seek help and develop a safety plan. Resources are available throughout the Central Valley, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline operates 24/7 for confidential support.
Sheena remains stable but faces a long recovery journey. Her family has established a donation page to support her during this challenging time.