Grand Forks man charged with attempted murder after Valentine's Day stabbing

Authorities say Fernando Lucio attacked his girlfriend after returning with cough drops

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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A 42-year-old Grand Forks man has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing his girlfriend on Valentine's Day. According to court documents, Fernando Lucio brought the victim gifts, left to get cough drops, then returned and attacked her, choking and stabbing her in her bed. Lucio was arrested at a neighboring apartment building, while the victim was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents often spike around holidays, and this case highlights the need for greater resources and support for victims of abuse. The alleged attack also raises concerns about mental health issues and access to weapons, which can be contributing factors in violent crimes.

The details

Police say Lucio brought the victim Valentine's Day gifts, then left to get cough drops. When he returned, he allegedly told the woman "you don't appreciate me" before grabbing a kitchen knife and attacking her, choking and stabbing her in her bed. The victim's children were present during the incident. Lucio was later located and arrested at a neighboring apartment building, while the victim was transported to Altru Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

  • The incident occurred on Valentine's Day (February 14, 2026).
  • Lucio was arrested shortly after the attack at a neighboring apartment building.

The players

Fernando Lucio

A 42-year-old Grand Forks man who has been charged with attempted murder for allegedly stabbing his girlfriend on Valentine's Day.

The victim

Lucio's girlfriend, who was stabbed by Lucio and transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

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What they’re saying

“I 'blacked out' and suffer from mental health issues.”

— Fernando Lucio

What’s next

The judge will decide on Lucio's bail status at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for greater awareness, resources, and support for victims of domestic violence, especially around high-stress times like holidays. It also raises important questions about mental health, access to weapons, and how to prevent such attacks in the future.