NC Woman Set Ablaze on Walk to Dollar General: Suspect Arrested, Victim Battles for Life

SANFORD, NC – A young woman’s life took a tragic turn just weeks before her 21st birthday when she was brutally attacked, doused in gasoline, and set on fire while walking to a Dollar General. The horrific incident has left Ashanti Downey, 20, with third-degree burns over 70% of her body and fighting for her life in critical condition.

According to the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office, the attack occurred on December 16 along Highway 27 near Sanford. Downey’s mother, Donecia Davis, said her daughter was heading to Dollar General when the suspect, 23-year-old Jami Raiziah Griffin, allegedly approached her from behind and set her ablaze.

A Heinous Act Shocks the Community

Sheriff Wayne Coats described the attack as one of the most “heinous” crimes his department has ever investigated. “It’s just a nightmare for this family,” Coats said. Authorities believe the motive may be linked to a domestic dispute or gang affiliation, although investigations are ongoing.

“This nightmare has forever changed my daughter’s life,” Davis shared on a GoFundMe campaign created to help with medical expenses. “No parent should have to see their child in the condition my daughter is in.”

Downey, who turns 21 on January 1, has already undergone three surgeries at a burn center, where she remains in critical but stable condition.

Suspect in Custody

Griffin was arrested on December 22 and charged with attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, and assault on a female. He is being held without bond at the Harnett County Detention Center and is scheduled to appear in court on December 30.

Community Support Surges for Downey

A GoFundMe campaign launched by Davis has raised over $98,000, surpassing its $70,000 goal, to help cover Downey’s extensive medical expenses. “Her strength and resilience inspire us all,” Davis said.

Seeking Justice and Healing

Downey’s family is urging anyone with additional information about the attack to come forward. For now, their focus remains on her recovery and the long road ahead.

“Someone out there knows why this happened,” Davis said. “But for now, we’re just praying for Ashanti and doing everything we can to support her.”

The case has drawn attention across the state, highlighting the devastating impact of such violence and the resilience of a family determined to seek justice.