A California man who launched a violent attack on his pregnant ex-wife in front of her children in Surprise has been sentenced to 21 years in prison, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday.
Garrett Headrick, 27, pleaded guilty in September to attempted second-degree murder, kidnapping, and stalking for the October 2024 assault that prosecutors described as “brutal” and “premeditated.” Six additional charges were dismissed as part of his plea deal.
Investigators said Headrick drove from California to his ex-wife’s home near Greenway and Dysart roads and waited for her to leave with her three children for a soccer game. He then forced the family back inside, dragging the woman by her hair as neighbors watched in horror and called police.
When officers arrived, they heard screams from inside the home and forced entry. They found Headrick on top of his ex-wife, choking her and repeatedly slamming her head into the floor. Several knives were discovered nearby.
The victim was hospitalized with multiple lacerations and a brain bleed but survived the attack.
Headrick was sentenced to two consecutive 10.5-year prison terms — one each for attempted murder and kidnapping — along with probation for the stalking conviction.
“Domestic violence is about power and control, and it leaves lasting scars on victims and families,” County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said in a statement. “This case is a reminder that abusers will go to extreme lengths to intimidate and harm. We will continue to stand with survivors and hold offenders fully accountable.”
The incident drew widespread outrage in the community, highlighting the persistent threat of domestic violence in Arizona. Resources for victims and survivors of abuse are available through the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence.
