A Wyoming woman, Alina Gaona, says she regrets her past patience toward her estranged husband, Oscar Gaona, who now faces felony charges after allegedly firing a shotgun at her as she fled from their Sheridan apartment complex, Cowboy State Daily reports.
Alina spoke openly about her fears and frustrations, saying she had tried for months to be kind and accommodating during their separation, a choice she now questions.
According to court documents, Oscar Gaona was arrested on October 9 after Sheridan County Sheriff’s deputies confronted him outside the couple’s shared apartment. He is accused of aiming and firing a shotgun at Alina after she returned home, believing he wasn’t there. Alina has since obtained a protection order against him and filed for divorce.
The couple, married for nine years and together for over a decade, had separated in June. Alina described a period of rising tension, mentioning a recent incident where her truck tire was punctured with what looked like screwdriver marks. Suspecting Oscar but unsure, she chose to dismiss her concerns until, she says, her safety was unmistakably threatened.
On the day of the alleged incident, Alina was finishing her work shift when Oscar appeared at her workplace, asking aggressively who she was with. Later, he reportedly texted her persistently, saying he was leaving the apartment and suggesting she return home. Alina said she felt uneasy but accepted a ride from a friend. When she arrived, she didn’t see Oscar’s vehicle in the driveway, leading her to believe he had left.
Moments later, Oscar reportedly emerged, positioned himself on the apartment balcony, and fired a shot as Alina fled. She recalls evading him by hiding in a nearby ditch before calling 911. According to court records, Sheriff’s deputies arrived soon after, confronting and arresting Oscar at gunpoint. He reportedly told deputies the shot was unintentional, a claim Alina disputes.
Reflecting on the events, Alina expressed regret over delaying her decisions to secure her independence.
“I’m not victim-blaming myself… but I realize how many things could have changed the situation,” she said.
Oscar Gaona faces aggravated assault charges, each of which could lead to up to 10 years in prison. Alina has since relocated and says she’s grateful for the support from friends and family as she moves forward.
