A disturbing domestic violence incident in Fargo, North Dakota, has left residents shaken after a man was accused of brutally attacking a woman over something as minor as her speaking too loudly. The case highlights how quickly anger can escalate into serious violence and once again brings attention to the urgent need to address domestic abuse and anger-related crimes.
Man accused of violent attack in Fargo apartment
Michael David Schaffer, 36, has been arrested and booked into the Cass County jail. He faces serious charges, including aggravated assault with a weapon and domestic violence assault causing serious bodily injury. Jail records confirm that he was taken into custody on Thursday following the incident.
The alleged attack happened around 8:20 p.m. inside an apartment in Fargo, a city located in eastern North Dakota near the Minnesota border. Schaffer, the woman, and at least one other person were inside the apartment at the time.
Argument over loud talking turned dangerous
According to police, the woman and another person were having a conversation. Schaffer reportedly became upset because he felt they were speaking too loudly. What began as irritation allegedly turned into anger and destruction.
Court documents say Schaffer started breaking items inside the apartment. His behaviour quickly became aggressive and threatening, creating a tense and unsafe environment for everyone present.
Woman allegedly choked for about one minute
Authorities allege that Schaffer pushed the woman against a bathroom door and choked her with one hand for roughly 60 seconds. Strangulation is considered one of the most dangerous forms of domestic violence, as it can cause serious internal injuries even when there are few visible marks.
Another person inside the apartment reportedly shouted at Schaffer to stop. Instead of calming down, police say he grabbed a pair of pliers, used abusive language, and stabbed the woman in her right elbow with the tool.
Police found visible injuries on the victim
Officers from the Fargo Police Department were called to the scene after the incident. When they arrived, they found the woman with:
- Two cuts on her right elbow
- Redness on her neck
- Redness on her chest
These injuries supported the claims that she had been both choked and stabbed. The situation was treated as a serious domestic violence case.
Suspect denied the allegations
After the attack, Schaffer reportedly left the apartment but later returned. Police found him in the entryway of the apartment building. During questioning, he denied choking or stabbing the woman and claimed that she was actually the one who attacked him.
Despite his denial, officers arrested him based on the evidence and statements collected at the scene. He was then transported to the Cass County jail.
Court process now underway
Schaffer is scheduled for arraignment, where he will formally hear the charges against him and enter a plea. The legal process will determine what happens next, but the charges themselves are extremely serious and could carry heavy consequences if he is convicted.
Case overview for quick understanding
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Fargo, North Dakota |
| Suspect | Michael David Schaffer, 36 |
| Alleged victim | Adult woman (name not released) |
| Main accusations | Choking and stabbing with pliers |
| Charges | Aggravated assault with a weapon, domestic violence assault |
| Injuries reported | Cuts to elbow, redness on neck and chest |
| Current status | Booked into Cass County jail |
Why this case is a serious warning
This incident is not just another crime report. It reflects a deeper issue related to anger, control, and domestic violence. Attacks that involve choking are especially dangerous because they often indicate a high risk of future, more severe violence.
Situations like this also show how quickly everyday disagreements can become life-threatening when someone loses control. Many victims of domestic violence suffer in silence, which is why awareness, education, and support systems are so important.
Communities, families, and friends play a vital role in recognising warning signs such as extreme jealousy, controlling behaviour, sudden rage, and physical aggression. Early support and intervention can save lives.
