Fresno firefighter found ‘covered in blood’ assaulted his wife with a shotgun, officials say

MADERA COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – An off-duty firefighter with the Fresno Fire Department, who the Madera County Sheriff’s Office says was found “covered in blood,” also beat his wife with a shotgun prior to his arrest, according to the Madera County District Attorney’s Office.

Deputies say the suspect, 44-year-old Emmanuel Chavez, was arrested on Sep. 7 following a call at a home in Madera County. According to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office, he was found “covered in blood” and refused to allow deputies inside. Chavez was arrested following a brief struggle.

The sheriff’s office says Chavez was later booked into the Madera County Jail.

Charging documents filed by the Madera County District Attorney’s Office allege that Emmanuel Chavez assaulted his wife with the butt-stock of a shotgun, as well as pointing the loaded firearm at her. The charging documents also allege that Chavez threatened to kill his victim before his arrest.

In a statement, the Fresno Fire Department says that its office was notified about the incident when it happened.

This is a personnel matter, and the employee has been placed on paid administrative leave. At this time, no further details can be shared as this remains a confidential personnel matter and the investigation is ongoing.
Fresno Fire Department

Charging documents filed by the Madera County District Attorney’s Office can be found by clicking here.

Chavez is being held on a $1 million bail, according to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office.