Dubuque Man Sets Fire to Wisconsin Woman

A Dubuque man stands accused of a horrific act of domestic violence after allegedly assaulting a woman and attempting to set her on fire during a heated altercation. Christian A. Kwallek, 29, was arrested at his residence on charges including willful injury causing bodily harm, domestic assault with injury, domestic assault impeding airflow, and first-degree arson.

The incident unfolded on a Friday evening, February 23rd, when police responded to a report of an assault at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital. A 31 year-old woman of Cuba City, Wisconsin, informed officers that she had visited Kwallek's residence earlier that evening, sparking a confrontation. Her and Kwallek had reportedly been in a relationship for several months prior to the altercation.

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According to court documents, Kwallek allegedly physically assaulted her, strangled her, and then threatened to tie her to a chair and set her ablaze. He purportedly poured gasoline on her pants and ignited the flames with a lighter. She managed to flee the residence, extinguishing the fire by removing her pants and stomping on them. Witnesses corroborated the victims account, stating they saw her fleeing the residence while still aflame.

As a result of the ordeal, the victim sustained injuries including abrasions to her arm, forearm, and thigh, a cut to her hand, and a scratch to her neck, along with a burn mark on her leg.

Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue, and cases like this underscore the urgent need for intervention and support for victims. Kwallek's arrest highlights the severity with which authorities approach such cases, underlining the importance of accountability and justice in combating domestic abuse.