Minneapolis Man Charged After Hammer Attack
Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Damonte Richardson following a violent assault in early September 2026.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Violence
Damonte Richardson faces a charge of second-degree assault after attacking his employer, Maria Grant, with a hammer in early September 2026. The incident occurred at the victim's Minneapolis home, where Grant employed Richardson for yard work and dog walking.
Why it matters
The assault has drawn significant attention due to the circumstances of the intervention, as a dog protected the victim by biting the attacker. The case highlights the ongoing legal proceedings following the violent encounter.
Damonte Richardson is currently facing a charge of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. An active arrest warrant remains in effect after the suspect was released from custody before charges were formally filed.
The players
Damonte Richardson
He is the suspect currently sought on an active arrest warrant for second-degree assault.
Maria Grant
She is the victim of the hammer attack who had previously employed the suspect for yard work.
Hennepin County
This is the jurisdiction currently managing the legal prosecution of the assault case.
The details
At approximately 9 p.m., Richardson struck Maria Grant with a hammer, resulting in injuries that required six staples. A family dog intervened during the attack, biting Richardson and preventing him from reaching children inside the home.
Timeline
The attack occurred at approximately 9 p.m. in early September 2026.
Legal Context
The charges filed against the suspect follow the standard procedural framework established by the Minnesota statutes on second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. These legal standards govern how Hennepin County prosecutors pursue violent crimes involving specialized weaponry.
Residents in the local neighborhood are advised to remain vigilant as police continue to search for the suspect. The incident serves as a reminder for homeowners to exercise caution when hiring independent workers for private services.
The takeaway
Public safety remains a priority while the suspect continues to evade capture following the incident. Residents should report any sightings of the individual to local law enforcement immediately.
Further reading
For more information on local safety trends, visit the Violence section.
