Grand Forks County, North Dakota (trfnews.i234.me) – In a court hearing on April 21, 2025, Moses Ayom, 44, of Grand Forks, contested a judicial determination that he is unfit to stand trial for an alleged racially motivated stabbing incident. Appearing via Zoom from the state hospital, Ayom insisted, “I’m not sick” and “I’ve got no mental problem,” questioning the judge about the delay in his trial and his confinement at the state hospital.
Ayom faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, theft, aggravated assault, fleeing a peace officer, reckless endangerment, reckless driving, and injuries to highways. The charges stem from a November 1, 2024, incident at Northlands Rescue Mission, where Ayom allegedly stabbed 37-year-old Travis Vigen, causing life-threatening injuries. Witnesses reported an argument between the two men in a community bathroom before the stabbing. Ayom reportedly told police he stabbed Vigen—unprovoked—because Vigen is white, claiming he was “pressured by Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to mobilize”.
Following the stabbing, Ayom allegedly stole a construction work truck equipped with a GPS tracking system. Law enforcement tracked the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but Ayom fled, leading officers on a high-speed chase into Walsh County. The pursuit ended when Ayom crashed near ND Hwy. 18S and ND Hwy 17, and was taken into custody.
Ayom’s case has been continued to June 2, 2025, as he remains under evaluation at the state hospital.
I’m Chris Harper, and I’m reporting for TRF News.
Did you know?
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In North Dakota, a defendant must be mentally competent to stand trial, meaning they must understand the proceedings and be able to assist in their defense.
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The Northlands Rescue Mission in Grand Forks provides emergency shelter and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
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High-speed pursuits pose significant risks; law enforcement agencies often use tire deflation devices to safely apprehend fleeing suspects.