Police say Peterson and the woman had previously dated. Warrants accuse him of aggravated assault, harassment and theft of property. The allegations have not been proven in court.

Officers first went to the woman’s home early Saturday after she reported receiving multiple threatening text messages from Peterson and said he had come to her door, where they argued. Police helped her obtain an order of protection, and a harassment warrant was issued at 6:15 a.m., according to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.

Officers then drove the woman home. A short time later, Peterson allegedly returned. The woman told police she heard a knock, looked outside and saw him apparently vandalizing her car. She went out to confront him, and the attack allegedly took place then.

Police returned to the residence at about 7:15 a.m. and found the woman in the backyard with extensive injuries to her head and face. Investigators recovered a hammer at the scene and collected it as evidence. Peterson is also accused of taking her cellphone. Warrants for aggravated assault and theft were issued later that morning.

Police said efforts to find Peterson have so far been unsuccessful. He is on probation for a felony methamphetamine possession conviction in Williamson County, authorities said.

Anyone who sees Peterson or has information about where he is can contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463 or the Department of Emergency Communications at 615-862-8600.