Ashanti Downey, a 20-year-old woman from North Carolina, remains in critical condition after a horrifying assault in which she was doused with gasoline and set on fire. The incident, which took place on December 16, has left her with second and third-degree burns and has shaken the local community. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, which some speculate may be linked to domestic violence or gang activity.
Downey’s ordeal began as she walked along Highway 27 toward a Dollar General store. According to her mother, Donecia Davis, an unidentified person approached Downey from behind, poured a flammable liquid on her, and ignited it. “How could they do this to my baby?” Davis tearfully asked. Downey was rushed to Central Carolina Hospital before being transferred to a burn center, where she has since undergone multiple surgeries.
Harnett County Sheriff Wayne Coats described the situation as a “nightmare for this family” and expressed the community’s shock. Days after the attack, police arrested 23-year-old Jami Raiziah Griffin, charging him with attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, and assault on a female. However, investigators have not yet determined a clear motive for the attack.
As Downey fights for her life, her family and supporters have rallied to provide financial and emotional support. A GoFundMe campaign, organized by Davis, has raised over $98,000 to cover Downey’s mounting medical expenses, surpassing its original $70,000 goal. The campaign highlights the long road to recovery ahead for the young woman, who turns 21 on January 1.
The brutal attack has drawn attention to broader concerns about violence in the area, with community members and officials emphasizing the need for justice and prevention. “This tragedy has left us mystified,” Sheriff Coats said, urging anyone with information to come forward. For now, Downey’s family remains focused on her recovery, hopeful that the support from their community will help her heal from this life-altering ordeal.
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