Perham Man Charged with Attempted Murder in Apartment Stabbing

Suspect Cyrus Lee Olson allegedly broke into victim's home and assaulted her until a neighbor intervened.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 22-year-old Perham, Minnesota man named Cyrus Lee Olson has been charged with felony attempted murder and other crimes after allegedly breaking into a 45-year-old woman's apartment, stabbing her multiple times, and physically assaulting her until a neighbor called 911 and intervened, likely saving the victim's life.

Why it matters

Violent home invasions and attempted murders are extremely serious crimes that raise public safety concerns in the local community. This incident highlights the importance of neighbors looking out for one another and the critical role bystanders can play in preventing further harm.

The details

According to the Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office, Olson allegedly forced his way into the woman's apartment around 10:16 a.m. on Saturday, February 8th. He was seen actively stabbing and physically assaulting the woman until a nearby neighbor intervened and called the authorities. The victim was able to flee to a friend's residence nearby, where she received initial medical treatment for multiple stab wounds and other injuries before being transported to the hospital in serious condition.

  • The incident occurred around 10:16 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • Olson was arrested shortly after the attack and taken to the Otter Tail County Detention Facility.

The players

Cyrus Lee Olson

A 22-year-old Perham, Minnesota man who has been charged with felony attempted murder, first-degree burglary, aggravated robbery, and second-degree assault.

The 45-year-old Perham woman

The victim of the attack, who suffered multiple stab wounds and other injuries before being able to flee to a friend's residence.

The neighbor

A person who intervened, called 911, and likely saved the victim's life.

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What’s next

Olson is being held on the felony charges and is awaiting a court appearance. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The takeaway

This violent home invasion and attempted murder underscores the importance of community vigilance and the role bystanders can play in preventing further harm. It also raises questions about mental health, domestic violence, and the need for robust public safety measures to protect vulnerable residents.