Man allegedly attacks mother over speaker dispute in bathroom
Nathan Norrell is accused of stabbing his mother in West Des Moines
An Iowa resident is in custody after authorities said he attempted to murder his mother following her refusal to let him use her speaker.
Nathan Norrell, 21, was taken into custody for attempted murder on February 28, shortly after the West Des Moines Police reported that he attacked his mother at their home in West Des Moines.
She received treatment for injuries not considered life-threatening but reportedly informed officers that she felt her son was trying to kill her.
As detailed in court files accessed by the local ABC station WOI, the mother, whose identity was not disclosed, expressed to police she "feared for her life."
WOI indicated that based on court files, Norrell was consuming alcohol heavily on the night of February 28, and at a point, he requested to use his mother's speaker in the bathroom.
She declined his request. Authorities mentioned Norrell then hid in the bathroom with a substantial, fixed-blade knife until his mother entered, then assaulted her, stabbing her neck. She also sustained injuries as she defended herself.
Authorities stated that Norrell followed her to the kitchen as she attempted to address her injuries.
After she called 911, Norrell exited the house. Police said Norrell used an Uber to reach his grandfather's residence and later turned himself in at the local police department.
Based on court documents, Norrell's mother conveyed to the officers that she "feared for her life and was convinced [her son] intended to end her life."
She mentioned believing the neck injury was "deliberate," and two weeks prior, her son was found unconscious in a bedroom with a knife nearby.
Questioned by authorities, Norrell stated he lost consciousness due to alcohol and other substances, claiming no recollection of the event.
Online court records reflected numerous charges against Norrell, primarily resolved traffic offenses.
In December 2025, charges included attempted burglary, a felony, along with misdemeanor disorderly conduct and obstruction of official acts. These cases are still pending.
Norrell was accused of attempted murder and possessing a weapon with intent. He was lodged in the Dallas County Jail with bail set at $750,000 cash.
A no-contact directive was issued during a Sunday hearing. His upcoming court date is on March 10.