TUCSON, Ariz. — A community vigil for 32-year-old Jacob Couch concluded just hours before he succumbed to injuries from a violent assault earlier in April, leaving the Tucson community and his visiting family grappling with the aftermath of an unprovoked hatchet attack in the city’s bustling downtown area.
Couch, who was on life support following the April 5 incident, died on Thursday, said his family outside Banner University Medical Center where he had been treated. According to his relatives, Couch’s heart ultimately failed after enduring a critical injury.
The attack occurred when Couch, seated on a downtown bench alongside his wife, Kristen Couch, was confronted by a 25-year-old man identified as Daniel Michael. Following a brief verbal exchange, Michael allegedly struck Jacob Couch in the neck with a machete-like weapon, inflicting a severe wound.
Described by family members, the gash was deep enough to sever an artery and reach his skull. Jacob Couch, who with his wife was journeying back to Alabama from a vacation in California, had elected to explore Tucson during a stopover.
Local authorities reported that video surveillance helped identify the assailant, capturing Michael calmly walking away from the attack site. After obtaining a search warrant, police located Michael at his home three days post-incident, discovering the alleged hatchet and attire worn during the assault in his apartment.
Upon being confronted with the footage, Michael acknowledged his presence at the scene, although he initially denied involvement. He later admitted to heavy drinking that day and stated that he could not recall the specifics of the confrontation.
The profound and brutal nature of the incident resonated deeply within the Tucson community, motivating residents to stand in solidarity with Couch’s family.
“It just breaks my heart to think such a demonic and terrible event could occur to visitors merely passing through,” said Roseanna Gonzalez, a participant at the vigil held for Couch.
The legal proceedings against Michael have advanced swiftly. Initially charged with aggravated assault, he faces a likely escalation to a murder charge following Couch’s death. He is currently held on a $1 million bond.
Further adding to the community’s support, a GoFundMe campaign organized for Jacob Couch’s family has amassed over $65,000, reflecting widespread empathy and the communal desire to assist during the family’s unexpected crisis.
As this case continues to develop, it not only highlights the unpredictable nature of violence but also the community’s robust response to tragedy and its unyielding support for those struck by unforeseen hardship.