A Wisconsin man, Nicholas Grundman, 47, has been charged with attempted first-degree intentional homicide, arson, stalking, and other crimes after allegedly trying to set his estranged wife’s house on fire while she was inside. The incident occurred on March 19, after Grundman’s wife filed for divorce and told him to leave their home.
The Events Leading to the Fire
According to a criminal complaint, Grundman’s wife filed for divorce in February after about a year and a half of marriage, citing issues including his alcoholism and inability to keep a job.
In January, after an argument about his unemployment and intoxication, she told him to leave their home. She later helped him find temporary housing at a hotel and then an Airbnb, but by mid-March, she lost track of where he was staying.
On the night of March 18, Grundman allegedly began harassing his wife with frequent calls and texts. When she told him to stop contacting her, he responded, “If I can’t have you, no one is going to have you.” He then hung up the phone.
The following day, Grundman’s wife was woken up by one of her cats pawing at her face. She soon realized her garage was on fire. She managed to escape the house with her three cats and two dogs, and used a fire extinguisher to put out the blaze. The fire damaged her car and personal items belonging to her son.
Investigation and Arrest
Investigators later found evidence of accelerant use at the scene, including a bottle of lighter fluid. Police also discovered that Grundman had access to his estranged wife’s garage and admitted to using gasoline to set the fire. In his confession, Grundman explained that he had consumed large quantities of alcohol before driving past her house on the night of the fire.
On March 31, police arrested Grundman at a construction site where he worked. He was carrying a loaded Ruger Security-9 handgun, which his wife said he had taken with him when she kicked him out of the house.
Charges Against Grundman
Grundman has been charged with:
- Attempted first-degree intentional homicide
- Two counts of arson
- Stalking
- Three counts of criminal damage to property
- Carrying a concealed weapon
He is currently in custody at the Outagamie County Jail on a $1 million cash bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 14.
Victim’s Statement and Community Impact
While Grundman denied trying to kill his estranged wife, the charges and evidence suggest otherwise. His wife expressed fear for her safety, and the case has drawn significant attention from both the local community and law enforcement.
