Storm Lake arrest after violent apartment attack, children present
Police arrested a 30 year old man after an alleged violent intrusion at an East Milwaukee Avenue apartment on December 4, leaving a woman with broken facial bones and two children present. The case raises immediate concerns about domestic violence, child safety, and community supports in Buena Vista County.
Storm Lake police responded shortly before 10:00 PM on December 4 to an apartment on East Milwaukee Avenue and found a woman with facial injuries, authorities said. Officers allege Colten Stroman of Sioux City, 30 years old, arrived intoxicated, argued with the woman, forced entry into the apartment, threatened a neighbor with a knife, and assaulted the victim while two children were present in the unit.
The injured woman was treated at Buena Vista Regional Medical Center for broken facial bones. Stroman reportedly resisted arrest but was taken into custody at the scene and is being held in the Buena Vista County Jail. "He faces a long list of charges, including First Degree Burglary, Willful Injury Causing Bodily Injury, and Child Endangerment."
The immediate facts underscore public safety concerns in Storm Lake, where neighbors and families must contend with the trauma and medical needs that follow violent incidents. The presence of children during the assault elevates the case into both criminal and child welfare territory, with potential long term emotional and developmental consequences for young witnesses. Local hospitals and emergency responders bear the burden of treating physical injuries while community services address psychological harm and family stabilization.
Beyond the individual case, the incident highlights systemic issues affecting Buena Vista County, including access to domestic violence resources, substance use treatment, and coordinated responses between law enforcement, health care providers, and child protective services. Communities with limited mental health and addiction services can see repeated cycles of violence that strain emergency rooms, law enforcement, and social services.
For residents, the arrest demonstrates that violent acts can occur within apartment complexes and that reporting and rapid police response are critical to protecting victims and children. It also points to the need for stronger prevention efforts, more robust victim support, and investments in behavioral health and family services to reduce future harm.
The case will move through the county legal system where charges have been filed. Storm Lake police continue to investigate, and authorities encourage anyone with information to cooperate with law enforcement to ensure community safety and support for the victims.
