FARGO, N.D. — A 41-year-old Fargo man is facing multiple felony charges after a fatal fentanyl overdose earlier this month.
James Earl Beal has been charged with delivery of fentanyl causing overdose death, possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, and a misdemeanor refusal to halt.
On October 10, 2025, Fargo Police responded to a suspected overdose at a residence on 47th Avenue South, where a woman was found dead in a basement bedroom. Evidence suggested the death was due to a drug overdose.
The Cass County Drug Task Force analyzed the victim’s cell phone, uncovering Facebook messages with a man using the alias “Shug,” a known alias for Beal. Court documents indicate the messages contained evidence of fentanyl sales, including photos of the suspected drug and meeting arrangements.
Surveillance footage corroborated the digital evidence, showing the victim meet with Beal at a residence before returning to her vehicle.
On October 23, task force agents located Beal in North Fargo to serve multiple outstanding felony warrants. When officers attempted to stop him, he fled on foot, discarding a handgun, keys, and a cell phone. Beal was apprehended in a nearby parking lot.
During the arrest, police seized fentanyl powder and an auto-opening knife from Beal. A search of his property revealed about 56 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, baggies, and other drug paraphernalia.
Charges were filed on October 24, and Beal is set to make his first court appearance this afternoon.
