The Poplarville Police Department arrested a man for the attempted murder of a female victim on Aug. 23.

At 12:08 that morning, officers responded to 415 N. Jackson St. in reference to a domestic assault, Poplarville Chief of Police Butch Raby said.

Upon arrival, officers found the victim laying on the couch with severe wounds to the head and face, Raby said.

Investigators determined that the suspect, later identified as Jason H. Sanford, 32, of 37 Abercrombie Knight Road, Seminary, allegedly struck the victim with a claw hammer, Raby said.

The suspect and the victim were in town visiting his brother and sister-in-law, Raby said.

Sanford fled the scene before officers arrived, Raby said.

The victim was transported to Forrest General Hospital where she was treated for her injuries, Raby said.

At 10 a.m. that same day, officers responded to the scene after receiving calls that Sanford was in the area, Raby said.

Sanford was detained by his stepfather until officers took him into custody, Raby said.

The suspect was charged with attempted murder and is being held at Pearl River County Jail with a  $2 million bond, Raby said.

Sanford’s preliminary hearing is set for Sept. 16, Raby said.