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Man Sentenced to Nearly 25 Years for Fatal Fargo Bar Stabbing
Michael Diedrich pleaded guilty to killing Ethan Larson outside a Fargo bar in 2024.
Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:19am
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A West Lakeland, Minnesota man named Michael Diedrich has been sentenced to 24 1/2 years in prison for the fatal stabbing of 22-year-old Ethan Larson outside a Fargo bar in 2024. Diedrich entered an Alford plea, agreeing there was enough evidence to convict him, and avoided going to trial.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing issue of violent crime and the need for stronger public safety measures in Fargo, a city that has seen an uptick in incidents like this in recent years. The sentencing also raises questions about plea bargaining and whether it allows for appropriate punishment of serious offenses.
The details
According to witnesses, Diedrich and Larson got into a fight outside the SouthTown PourHouse bar, during which Diedrich fatally stabbed Larson. Larson was found holding his chest and telling bystanders he had been stabbed. The bartender was able to identify both men based on their credit card information.
- The incident occurred in 2024 outside the SouthTown PourHouse bar in Fargo.
- Diedrich was sentenced on March 27, 2026.
The players
Michael Diedrich
A 29-year-old man from West Lakeland, Minnesota who pleaded guilty to fatally stabbing Ethan Larson outside a Fargo bar in 2024.
Ethan Larson
A 22-year-old man from Newfolden, Minnesota who was fatally stabbed by Michael Diedrich outside a Fargo bar in 2024.
Judge Reid Brady
The judge who sentenced Michael Diedrich to 24 1/2 years in prison for the 2024 fatal stabbing.
What they’re saying
“We must hold violent offenders accountable to the fullest extent of the law to protect our community.”
— Judge Reid Brady, Presiding Judge
What’s next
Diedrich will serve his 24 1/2 year sentence in the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, with 5 years of probation to follow upon his release.
The takeaway
This tragic incident underscores the need for continued efforts to address violent crime and improve public safety in Fargo, including stronger sentencing guidelines and support for mental health and conflict resolution programs.
