Bismarck: Erian Fox charged in fatal stabbing

Note: A charge is an accusation. It is not a conviction.

Bismarck, Burleigh County, North Dakota (trfnews.i234.me) — Bismarck Police say a deadly stabbing happened at an apartment on Porter Avenue. Police say 25-year-old Erian Fox was arrested the same night. Police say Fox is now held on a Class AA felony murder charge.

What the police say happened

Police were called around 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30. They were sent to the 1000 block of Porter Avenue. The call reported a possible stabbing.

Police say they found John Leier inside the apartment. Police say he had a stab wound to the chest. Officers gave aid until paramedics arrived.

Leier was taken to a local hospital. Police say he was later pronounced dead. Police say Leier’s family has been notified.

Video review and a woman of interest

Police also reviewed surveillance video from the area. The video showed two women leaving after the stabbing.

Police say one woman was quickly located. Police later asked the public to help identify the second woman.

Police say that the woman was later found and interviewed. Police say she has been cleared. Police say they are not seeking any other suspects now.

Arrest and next steps

Police say Fox was taken to the Burleigh Morton Detention Center. Police say she was first held on ingestion and evidence tampering charges.

Police say the case was then reviewed by investigators. Police say Fox was identified as the homicide suspect. Police say her charge was upgraded to Class AA felony murder.

In North Dakota, a Class AA felony is the most serious level. The penalty can include life in prison. Formal court filings may add more details soon.

How to share tips and follow the case

Bismarck Police say the investigation is still active. Police have said the incident appeared targeted. Police have said there is no sign of a wider threat.

Still, police asked nearby residents to check cameras. They want video from Porter Avenue and nearby routes.

Anyone with information can contact the police at 701-223-1212. Anonymous tips can be sent by text. Text “BISPD” and your tip to 847411. Tips can also be sent in the Bismarck Police app.

External links:

• Bismarck Police tip options and app info.
• North Dakota Courts public case search.
• North Dakota Century Code: Murder (12.1-16-01).
• North Dakota Century Code: Sentencing (12.1-32-01).
• Burleigh/Morton Detention Center information.
• Background reporting from KFYR-TV.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

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