DURHAM, N.C. — Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly stabbing that occurred earlier this week in Durham. Police confirmed that 44-year-old Kenashi McGraw, of Princeton, was found fatally wounded on September 18 after officers responded to reports of an incident on Glenn School Road.
Durham Police said they were dispatched to the area at approximately 8:12 p.m. When officers arrived, they located McGraw in a wooded area near the roadway. She had sustained a stab wound and was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of first responders. No additional victims were found during the search of the area.
Investigators have not released details regarding a possible motive or suspect. The circumstances that led to McGraw’s stabbing remain unclear, and authorities have not confirmed whether she was attacked at the scene or brought there after the incident. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and conduct interviews in an effort to determine what happened in the moments leading up to her death.
The investigation has since drawn a significant police presence to the Glenn School Road area, where officers cordoned off sections of the roadway and surrounding woods to search for evidence. Forensic teams were seen examining the scene late into the night, while neighbors expressed concern about the violence so close to their homes. Several residents told local media they were shocked to hear about a fatal stabbing in what is typically a quiet area of the city.
Durham Police are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with the case. Individuals can contact Investigator D. Johnson directly at 919-560-4440, ext. 29541. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Durham CrimeStoppers at 919-683-1200. Callers may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest. Authorities stressed that community involvement will be key in helping solve the case and providing answers for McGraw’s family.
The death of Kenashi McGraw adds to a troubling rise in violent crime across Durham in 2025, with multiple fatal incidents reported over the past several months. Police say they remain committed to addressing violent crime through both investigative work and community partnerships. As the investigation continues, family members, friends, and the wider community are left mourning a woman whose life ended in a sudden and tragic act of violence.