Ashanti Downey, 20, is in critical condition after being doused in gasoline and set on fire with a lit cigarette while walking to a Dollar General store in Sanford, North Carolina, on December 16. The attack left her with third-degree burns covering 70% of her body.
Jami Raiziah Griffin, 23, who had reportedly been living with Ashanti at the time, was arrested 11 days later in connection with the shocking assault. Griffin faces charges of attempted murder, felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and misdemeanor assault on a female. Investigators suspect the attack may have been “domestic-related,” according to CBS17.
Ashanti’s mother has spoken out about her daughter’s devastating injuries, sharing her heartbreak on a GoFundMe page created to raise funds for Ashanti’s medical expenses. “On Monday, December 16, 2024, my daughter Ashanti’s life was forever changed,” she wrote. “She was brutally attacked by an assailant, and the investigation is currently ongoing.
“She was doused with a flammable liquid and set on fire. She has sustained 3rd degree burns over 70% of her body and is now in critical condition. “My daughter will be celebrating her 21st birthday on January 1, 2025, and due to the hatred of an individual or individuals, her life will be forever changed. No parent should have to see their child in the condition my daughter is in.
I am making her my top priority and have been by her side at the hospital since this incident occurred.” The Harnett County Sheriff’s Office reported that Ashanti was walking near North Carolina 27 Highway and Barbecue Church Road when she was attacked. Deputies were alerted by staff at Central Carolina Hospital, where Ashanti was admitted with severe burns.
She was later transferred to a burn center and is listed in critical but stable condition. The sheriff’s office initially sought three individuals in connection with the attack. A statement confirmed that Ashanti had been “doused in gasoline and lit on fire with a cigarette.” Griffin was taken into custody on December 27, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward. The investigation is ongoing as Ashanti fights for her life in the hospital.