Fargo, ND – A 23-year-old woman is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly attacking her sleeping boyfriend with a hatchet in North Fargo, leaving him with severe injuries.
Alleged Hatchet Attack During Sleep
Lena Deoliveira, 23, was charged with attempted murder and aggravated assault following a Sept. 5 incident involving her boyfriend, Jonathan Granados, in Cass County. According to police, the attack occurred in a detached garage near the 700 block of College Street North, where all parties were reportedly homeless.
A witness staying in the garage described the attack, saying it sounded like Deoliveira was “splitting wood” as she allegedly swung the hatchet at Granados’ head. The witness initially thought she had struck a headrest or headboard.
“The witness looked and saw Lena swing down with the hatchet,” the charging documents state. “The witness couldn’t see the point of the strike due to obstructions but heard it sound like splitting wood.”
Witness Observations and Injuries
The man who witnessed the attack told investigators that Granados received at least two strikes to the head, noting that some of his fingers appeared to be missing or “kind of hanging.” He also observed blood and a mark through the victim’s skull, according to police reports.
Granados was treated at a local medical facility for injuries that included severe lacerations to his hands and head, with one injury described as a “large slice” on his skull.
Suspect Flees and Arrested
After the alleged attack, Deoliveira fled the scene. Police later located and arrested her in Moorhead without incident. She is currently held on a $500,000 bond and is scheduled for her next court appearance on Oct. 16.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Deoliveira faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Attempted murder
- Aggravated assault
The case remains under investigation, and further legal proceedings will determine additional outcomes.
Safety and Awareness
Authorities urge anyone experiencing domestic disputes or violence to contact local law enforcement immediately. This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and prompt reporting of violent behavior.
Share your thoughts or experiences with domestic safety in the comments below.
