Armed man tracked woman, threatened children before strangling attack: SCSO

(KRON) — A 46-year-old stalker hid a GPS tracker on a woman’s car before he threatened her children and strangled the woman, according to the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office.

SCSO said they were notified on August 12 of an alleged attack that occurred just two days prior.

“The victim reported that Wilbur attempted to strangle her by placing his hands around her throat,” said the sheriff’s office in a news release. “During a follow-up interview with the victim on August 18, 2025, deputies discovered a GPS tracker affixed to her vehicle. Wilbur had been sending the victim numerous text messages indicating that he knew her location and was making threats of harm toward her and her children.”

The sheriff’s office said the suspect — identified as Timothy Wilbur — had a loaded firearm hidden inside a duffel bag in his vehicle when he was taken into custody during a traffic stop.

Wilbur was arrested and remains in custody at Sonoma County Jail where his bail was increased to $500,000. He faces several charges, including possession of a loaded firearm, felony domestic violence and stalking.

Anyone who is experiencing domestic violence is urged to contact local law enforcement or the Family Justice Center at (707) 565-8255.