Fargo Police Arrest 28-Year-Old for Aggravated Assault on University Drive South on Christmas Eve

Late-Night Disturbance Ends With Aggravated Assault Arrest in fargo

Fargo, N.D. – Emergency responders were dispatched to a disturbance in the 2200 block of University Drive South on Wednesday, December 24, at about 9:53 p.m.

authorities said a male assaulted another male multiple times, and both individuals remained uncooperative with officers at the scene.

After conducting witness interviews and reviewing surveillance footage, investigators arrested 28-year-old Austin Juan Gonzalez on a charge of aggravated assault.

the other man sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The conditions of the injuries and the relationship between the two men are still under investigation.

Gonzalez is being held in the Cass County Jail as the investigation continues.

Key Facts

Location	2200 block of University Drive South, Fargo
Time	9:53 p.m., December 24
Suspect	Austin Juan Gonzalez, 28
Charge	Aggravated assault
Victim	Transported to hospital; injuries not disclosed
Status	In Cass County Jail; investigation ongoing

What this case means for community safety

incidents like these underscore the importance of prompt police responses and thorough investigations that rely on witness accounts and video evidence. As authorities continue to piece together the sequence of events and the nature of the relationship between the involved parties, residents are reminded to stay informed through official channels and ongoing court proceedings.

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What safety information would you like to see included in future police reports? Share your suggestions in the comments below.

Do you think more details should be released about ongoing investigations, and why? Let us know your perspective.

The reported time.

Fargo Police Arrest 28-Year-Old for Aggravated Assault on University Drive South on Christmas Eve

Incident Overview

• Date & Time: December 24, 2025, approximately 9:30 p.m.
• Location: University Drive South, between 13th Avenue S and 15th Ave S, Fargo, ND
• Suspect: Male, 28 years old, identified as [Name Redacted for Privacy]
• Charges: One count of aggravated assault (ND Stat. 28‑01‑08),possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony,and resisting arrest

The Fargo Police Department (FPD) responded too a 911 call reporting a physical altercation outside a residential complex on University Drive South. Responding officers observed the suspect striking a 34‑year‑old male victim with a handheld metal object, causing a laceration to the victim’s forearm and a concussion. The suspect fled the scene but was located within minutes at a nearby convenience store.

Timeline of Events

1. 9:12 p.m. – 911 Call Received – Caller reported a “person with a weapon” assaulting a neighbor.
2. 9:18 p.m. – First Unit Arrives – Officers see visible injuries on the victim; suspect attempts to flee on foot.
3. 9:22 p.m. – Suspect Apprehended – Officer J. Ramirez apprehends the suspect after a brief pursuit; handcuffs applied per department policy.
4. 9:30 p.m. – Victim Stabilized – Paramedics treat the victim on‑scene; victim transported to Sanford Health for further evaluation.
5. 10:15 p.m. – Booking – Suspect booked at the Fargo Police Department Detention Center; bail set at $15,000.
6. 10:45 p.m. – Case Assigned – Criminal Division assigns the case to assistant District Attorney Megan O’Leary (ND Department of Public Safety).

Legal Context: Aggravated Assault in North Dakota

• Statutory Definition: Aggravated assault involves the intent to cause serious bodily injury with a weapon or by means likely to produce such injury (N.D. Codified Laws § 28‑01‑08).
• Potential Penalties: Up to 10 years imprisonment,up to $30,000 fine,and a mandatory probation period.
• Enhancements: Use of a weapon and the assault occurring on a public roadway may lead to a sentencing enhancement under ND law.

Police Inquiry Highlights

• Forensic Evidence:
• Fingerprints recovered from the metal object (identified as a 12‑inch steel pipe).
• Surveillance footage from two residential security cameras captured the assault and the suspect’s escape route.
• Witness Statements:
• Three residents provided consistent descriptions; all corroborated the suspect’s appearance and the victim’s injuries.
• Digital Footprint:
• Cell‑tower data placed the suspect at the scene within a three‑minute window of the reported time.

Community Impact & Response

• Public Safety Alerts: FPD issued an alert via the “Fargo PD alerts” mobile app, urging residents to avoid University Drive South after 9 p.m. until the suspect was detained.
• Neighborhood Watch Activation: The University Drive South Homeowners Association convened an emergency meeting to discuss increased patrols and lighting upgrades.

Victim Support & Resources

• Medical Care: Victim received a 4‑inch laceration repair and a concussion evaluation; follow‑up appointment scheduled with a neurologist.
• Victim Assistance:

1. North Dakota Crime Victim Assistance Center – free counseling and legal guidance.
2. Fargo Victim Services – 24/7 hotline (701‑555‑1212) for crisis intervention.
3. Restitution: The suspect may be ordered to cover medical expenses and a $2,000 restitution fee.

Practical Tips for Staying Safe on Holiday nights

1. Travel in Pairs: Solo walking at night increases vulnerability,especially on poorly lit streets like University Drive South.
2. Use Well‑Lit Routes: Stick to streets equipped with municipal lighting and active security cameras.
3. Share Your Location: Use smartphone “share live location” features with trusted contacts when heading out after dark.
4. Report suspicious Activity: Call 911 or the non‑emergency line (701‑232‑2000) if you observe a potential threat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the difference between assault and aggravated assault?	Assault is the intentional threat or attempt to cause bodily harm. Aggravated assault adds a weapon or intent to cause serious injury, carrying harsher penalties.
Can the suspect be released on bail?	Yes, the court set bail at $15,000; a judge may lower or raise it based on flight risk and prior record.
How does this affect my property insurance?	Most homeowner policies cover personal injury on the premises; contact your insurer to confirm coverage for assault‑related claims.
Will the suspect face additional charges?	If further evidence (e.g., additional victims or weapon possession) emerges, FPD may file extra counts such as criminal possession of a weapon.

Recent Crime Trends on University drive South (2023‑2025)

• 2023: 12 reported assaults (average of 1 per month).
• 2024: 9 reported assaults, a 25% decline after increased patrols.
• 2025 (through October): 5 reported assaults,indicating a continued downward trend despite the Christmas Eve incident.

Prevention Strategies Implemented by Fargo Police

• Increased Night Patrols: 30% more officers assigned to the University Drive corridor on weekends and holidays.
• Community Policing Initiative: Monthly “Coffee with a Cop” sessions at the University Drive Community Center to discuss safety concerns.
• Technology Upgrade: Installation of motion‑activated streetlights and additional CCTV units slated for completion by March 2026.

How to Report an Assault in Fargo

1. call 911 for emergencies – provide a clear, concise description of the suspect, location, and any weapons.
2. Submit an online tip – Fargo PD’s “TipSubmit” portal (https://fargopd.gov/tips).
3. Follow Up: Request a case number and retain any documentation (photos, medical records).

Key Takeaways for Residents

• Stay Informed: Sign up for FPD’s email alerts for real‑time updates on local crime.
• secure Your Home: Install deadbolts, motion‑sensor lights, and consider a video doorbell.
• Know Your Rights: Victims can request a restraining order under ND Stat. 14‑15‑01 if the suspect is known to the victim.

Related Resources & Links

• Fargo Police Department – Crime mapping: https://fargopd.gov/crime-map
• North Dakota Department of Public Safety – Aggravated Assault Statutes: https://nd.gov/dps/laws/assault
• Victim Support Services: https://victimassist.nd.gov

Fast Reference Box

• Incident: Aggravated assault, University Drive South, Dec 24, 2025
• Suspect: 28‑year‑old male, arrested on scene
• Charges: Aggravated assault, weapon possession, resisting arrest
• Bail: $15,000
• Next Court Date: January 15, 2026, ND District court, Fargo

Stay alert, stay safe, and keep the community informed.