Dad Dies After He’s Nearly Decapitated in Horrifying Hatchet Attack

A devastating tragedy has shaken a family from Alabama after Jacob Couch, a 32-year-old father, died nearly two weeks after a random and violent attack at a Tucson, Arizona bus stop.

Couch was on life support for 12 days following the April 5 attack. He passed away on April 17 at Banner University Medical Center after suffering severe injuries, including a severed artery and trauma to the skull, inflicted by a hatchet-wielding man identified as 25-year-old Daniel Michael.

Jacob’s wife, Kristen Couch, who was with him during the attack, posted an emotional tribute on Facebook. “I can’t believe we made it 11 years. I always thought we would have so many more,” she wrote. “I’ll love you forever and always.”

The couple had recently been living in Los Angeles, trying to rebuild their lives after the heartbreaking stillbirth of their son, Brooks, in May 2024. But missing their daughters, ages 13 and 15, they decided to return to their hometown of Arab, Alabama by bus, stopping briefly in Tucson.

That stop turned fatal.

Kristen said the couple had been sitting at a downtown bus stop when Michael approached and began yelling. As Jacob bent down to gather their things and walk away, the suspect suddenly launched his attack with a hatchet. After delivering the brutal blows, Michael fled the scene by boarding a streetcar, leaving Jacob bleeding heavily.

Kristen and Jacob had endured more than most couples could bear, and this senseless act of violence ended what was meant to be a journey home and a fresh start.

Three days later, Michael was arrested at his home and originally charged with aggravated assault. Those charges have since been upgraded to first-degree murder. He remains behind bars in Pima County Jail on a $1 million bond.

Back in Arizona, the Couch family held onto hope. Despite grim predictions from doctors, they noticed small movements and signs that gave them a glimmer of optimism. Erica Sims, Jacob’s sister-in-law, shared on April 14, “We were told he was showing no signs of life. But we’ve seen a difference in his movements since we got here.”

Unfortunately, Jacob’s body couldn’t hold on.

Loved ones have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and travel between Arizona and Alabama. They also hope to use some of the funds to support Jacob’s teenage daughter and attend court proceedings in the months ahead.

Kristen, still reeling from the trauma, wrote, “Please hold our sweet baby so tight until I can be with you again. I know Jake tried to fight. We could all see it… but now I think that may have been the closure he could give us before he left this world.”