Swisher man faces multiple charges stemming from attacking vehicle with ax

A Swisher man faces five charges stemming from what officers describe as an altercation involving attacking a vehicle with an ax.

According to the multiple criminal complaints, Martin Victor Theisen, 46, of Swisher was involved in a verbal confrontation with a woman at Theisen's home.

During the confrontation at 9:15 p.m. Wednesday, Theisen allegedly became violent, and began punching the woman in the face and head, the complaints said. When she attempted to flee in her vehicle, Theisen jumped on the hood and began punching the windshield.

Theisen caused enough damage that the vehicle became disabled in the roadway, according to the complaints.

The woman was able to flee to a nearby neighbor's house for help, and Theisen fled the scene when deputies arrived, the complaints said.

At roughly 12:15 a.m. Thursday, three hours after the initial altercation, Theisen emerged from a hiding place after deputies had left and had another altercation with a man.

According to the complaints, Theisen appeared highly intoxicated, and while wielding an ax told the man he was going to 'kill him.”

Theisen's wife got between the two men, at which point Theisen began striking the man's vehicle with the ax, the complaints said.

Theisen has been arrested on five charges stemming from both incidents.

They include second-degree criminal mischief, fourth-degree criminal mischief, first-degree harassment, going armed with intent, and assault causing bodily injury.