Child Stabs Man Allegedly Beating Mother in Iowa

No charges expected against child who defended mother from domestic violence attack

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A child in Fort Madison, Iowa is accused of stabbing a 32-year-old man who was allegedly beating the child's mother. Police say the man, Jacob Haage, came home drunk, got into an argument with the woman, and then physically attacked her, at which point the child intervened and stabbed Haage to defend the mother.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the difficult situations children can find themselves in when trying to protect a parent from an abusive partner. While the child's actions were likely motivated by a desire to defend their mother, it underscores the complex dynamics of domestic abuse and the impact it can have on families.

The details

According to police, on February 8th officers responded to a domestic disturbance call and found Jacob Haage, 32, lying on the ground with multiple stab wounds. The mother told police that Haage came home drunk on February 7th, got into an argument with her, and then punched her in the face before leaving. When Haage returned home around midnight, he allegedly became belligerent, broke things in the house, and then attacked the woman, putting her in a chokehold. The mother was able to escape and ran to her son's room, but Haage allegedly pinned her down in front of her son, at which point the son stabbed Haage in defense of his mother.

  • On February 7th, Haage came home after work and began drinking heavily.
  • Around midnight on February 8th, Haage returned home and allegedly attacked the mother.

The players

Jacob Haage

A 32-year-old man who allegedly attacked his partner while intoxicated and was subsequently stabbed by her child in defense of the mother.

The mother

The victim of the alleged domestic violence attack by Haage, who was able to escape and run to her son's room before Haage pinned her down.

The child

The son of the mother who allegedly stabbed Haage in order to defend his mother from the attack.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“No charges are expected against the child.”

— Police Chief Cody Potthast (WGEM)

What’s next

Haage was arrested and charged with domestic abuse assault impeding airway. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the devastating impact of domestic violence, not just on the victims but on their children as well. While the child's actions were likely motivated by a desire to protect their mother, it highlights the complex and difficult situations families can find themselves in when dealing with an abusive partner. This incident emphasizes the need for greater support and resources for victims of domestic abuse, as well as education and intervention programs to prevent such violence from occurring in the first place.