A former Wisconsin firefighter is facing attempted homicide charges after allegedly shooting his wife shortly after she returned home from meeting her divorce attorney. According to police, he chillingly told her, “Look at me so you can see me when I shoot you,” before opening fire inside their Grafton home.
The disturbing case has drawn national attention, highlighting ongoing concerns about domestic violence during separation and divorce proceedings.
Domestic Disturbance Call in Grafton, Wisconsin
According to the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a domestic disturbance at a residence on Lakefield Road in the Town of Grafton around 4 p.m. Friday. When officers arrived, they reported hearing screams from inside the house, followed by multiple gunshots.
Authorities later identified the suspect as 53-year-old Guy Jerome Paider, a retired member of the West Allis Fire Department. His 51-year-old wife, who had met earlier that day with a divorce lawyer, was found inside with multiple gunshot wounds to her abdomen, leg, and groin.
According to the criminal complaint, Paider allegedly confronted his wife about what she wanted from the divorce, then grabbed her, threw her to the ground, and carried her into the bedroom. He then told her to “look at me” before firing multiple times.
Paramedics and Flight for Life Wisconsin transported the woman to a nearby hospital, where she remains in stable condition.
Investigation and Charges Filed
Police recovered a handgun at the scene and arrested Paider without further resistance. He now faces charges of attempted first-degree intentional homicide and first-degree recklessly endangering safety, both felonies under Wisconsin law.
| Name | Age | Role | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guy Jerome Paider | 53 | Former firefighter, accused shooter | In custody |
| Victim (wife) | 51 | Shooting victim | Hospitalized, stable condition |
According to court records from Ozaukee County Circuit Court, Paider made his initial appearance on Monday, where prosecutors detailed the events leading up to the shooting. The court has set a high cash bond and scheduled a preliminary hearing for early November.
Investigators said the victim had just returned from meeting her attorney to discuss ending the marriage. They believe this meeting may have triggered Paider’s violent outburst.
Law enforcement officers credited a rapid emergency response and tactical containment for saving the victim’s life. The Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation assisted in collecting forensic evidence from the scene.
Domestic Violence Concerns During Divorce
Experts in domestic violence prevention say this case highlights one of the most dangerous periods in abusive relationships — the time between separation and finalizing a divorce.
Advocates emphasize that victims who plan to leave an abusive partner should develop a safety plan, alert trusted family members, and, when possible, meet attorneys or law enforcement officers in safe locations.
According to national data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than half of all female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former intimate partner. In many cases, firearms are the weapon used.
Legal analysts note that Wisconsin’s laws allow prosecutors to seek enhanced penalties in cases involving domestic partners and firearms. If convicted, Paider could face life imprisonment for attempted homicide.
Broader Legal and Community Response
The Ozaukee County District Attorney’s Office is handling the prosecution. A spokesperson said the case reflects the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of early intervention.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline encourages anyone experiencing similar threats to contact them at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support.
Community leaders and the Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence also called attention to the need for stricter firearm removal policies when restraining orders are issued.
As Paider remains in custody, his wife continues to recover surrounded by family. Police say the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed pending forensic analysis.
The case of former firefighter Guy Jerome Paider stands as a tragic reminder of how domestic disputes can escalate into life-threatening violence. His alleged statement — “Look at me so you can see me when I shoot you” — underscores the psychological and physical danger victims face in abusive relationships.
As the legal process unfolds, law enforcement and community organizations urge anyone in fear for their safety to seek immediate help through 911 or local domestic violence services.
Protective measures, counseling, and early intervention remain critical to preventing further tragedies across Wisconsin and beyond.
