Man Told Police He ‘Freaked Out’ and Strangled His Wife During an Argument After Putting Their Kid to Bed: Affidavit

**Utah Man Charged with Murder Following Alleged Strangling of Wife**

A man from Utah has been charged with murder after allegations surfaced that he strangled his wife during a domestic dispute. The incident reportedly took place shortly after the couple put their seven-year-old daughter to bed.

Brennan Dalton, 34, is facing several charges, including murder, domestic violence in the presence of a child, and public intoxication. Details of the case were revealed in an affidavit of probable cause filed in Utah County, which has since been reviewed by multiple media outlets.

On the morning of April 29, Dalton contacted emergency services around 2:15 a.m., stating that he had “freaked out” and strangled his wife. When officers arrived at the scene in Lehi, Utah, they discovered the woman unresponsive and having difficulty breathing, prompting immediate medical intervention.

According to the affidavit, Dalton claimed that he and his wife had been consuming alcohol prior to the incident. He stated that an argument ignited when his wife allegedly referred to him as a failure and attempted to make him sleep on the couch without a blanket. These exchanges appear to have triggered a severe emotional response in Dalton.

The police report also highlights Dalton’s past struggles with mental health. He disclosed that he had attempted suicide in November 2022 but did not go through with it. Dalton reportedly expressed that he had considered it would be “easier to kill his wife than himself” since that time.

Following the alleged strangulation, Dalton stated he ceased the attack and repeatedly apologised to his wife before making the emergency call. Medical personnel subsequently intubated her at the hospital, and she eventually showed signs of regaining consciousness by responding to her name. However, medical assessments warned of the potential for brain damage, creating additional concerns for the victim’s wellbeing.

As of now, no updates have been provided regarding the woman’s current condition, and it remains uncertain whether Dalton has entered a formal plea or secured legal representation.

The case underscores the alarming issue of domestic violence, which affects many families across the UK and beyond. Domestic violence resources are available for those in need: individuals experiencing such situations can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, where support is offered 24/7 in over 170 languages and all calls are treated as confidential.

This event occurs against the backdrop of a heightened awareness surrounding domestic violence, particularly in recent years. Advocacy groups continue to raise concerns about the need for supportive measures and interventions in situations of domestic unrest.

As legal proceedings unfold, the community and law enforcement will be monitoring the case closely. The allegations not only highlight the concerning dynamics of domestic disputes but also the critical necessity for effective resources and immediate support for those impacted by such violence.