Ashanti Downey: 5 Key Updates On Her Year-Long Fight After The Sanford, NC Attack

One year later, the story of Ashanti Downey remains a tragic and urgent call for justice in Sanford, North Carolina. The 20-year-old woman, who was brutally doused with gasoline and set on fire in a heinous act of violence, continues her harrowing fight for life and recovery a full year after the incident. As of today, December 13, 2025, her condition is still considered critical, underscoring the severity of the attack and the long road ahead for her and her family. The case has drawn national attention, shining a spotlight on the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the community's unwavering support for a young woman who was simply walking down the street when her life was irrevocably changed. Her mother, Donecia Davis, has become a tireless advocate, ensuring the public does not forget her daughter's plight or the ongoing legal proceedings against the accused.

Ashanti Downey: A Snapshot of Her Life and The Attack

Ashanti Downey, a resident of Sanford, North Carolina, was thrust into the public eye under the most tragic of circumstances. Before the attack, she was a young woman with her whole life ahead of her. The details surrounding the incident paint a picture of sudden, unprovoked violence that shocked the local community.

• Full Name: Ashanti Downey
• Age at Incident: 20 years old
• Hometown: Sanford, North Carolina (NC)
• Date of Attack: December 16, 2024
• Location of Incident: Near N.C. 27 West, while walking to a local Dollar Tree/Dollar General store
• Nature of Attack: Doused with gasoline and set ablaze by an assailant
• Injuries Sustained: Third-degree burns covering 70% of her body
• Mother's Name: Donecia Davis
• Current Health Status (as of late 2025): Remains in critical condition, fighting for her life and undergoing extensive medical treatment
• Medical Facility: Initially treated at Central Carolina Hospital in Sanford

The Horrific Details and The Aftermath of The Attack

The incident on December 16, 2024, was an act of extreme brutality that left the community of Sanford in disbelief. Ashanti Downey was walking in the vicinity of N.C. 27 West when she was approached by an individual. Reports indicate she was doused with a flammable liquid, believed to be gasoline, and then set on fire.

The Harnett County Sheriff's Office was alerted to the situation after a 911 call was placed from a staff member at Central Carolina Hospital in Sanford, where Ashanti had initially sought help for her severe burns. The extent of her injuries—third-degree burns over 70% of her body—immediately necessitated specialized and long-term medical care.

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The investigation quickly pointed toward a possible domestic violence connection, though initial reports mentioned "three unknown" assailants. The focus soon shifted to one primary suspect, who was apprehended shortly after the crime.

The sheer cruelty of the crime sparked outrage and an immediate outpouring of support. Her mother, Donecia Davis, spoke out, stating that "No parent should have to see their child in the condition my daughter is in," highlighting the emotional toll on the family. The attack occurred just weeks before her birthday, adding another layer of tragedy to the event.

The severity of Ashanti's injuries means her recovery is not measured in weeks or months, but in years. She has required multiple surgeries and remains in a battle to overcome the life-threatening damage. While one report from late December 2024 indicated she was "off" a certain medical support, signifying a small step forward, her condition has remained critically serious throughout the year.

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The Legal Battle: Jami Raiziah Griffin and The Attempted Murder Charges

Eleven days after the attack, investigators made a significant arrest. Jami Raiziah Griffin, a 23-year-old Sanford resident, was charged in connection with the horrific crime. Griffin was officially charged with attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury.

The legal proceedings against Griffin have been ongoing throughout 2025, with the case drawing intense scrutiny from the public and media. Court documents and reports have cited his arrest, which included a charge for failing to appear in court on July 30, 2024, which further complicates his legal standing. The attempted murder charge is one of the most serious in the state, reflecting the brutality of the assault on Ashanti Downey.

The prosecution's case is centered on proving his intent and responsibility for the life-altering injuries inflicted upon the victim. The family of Ashanti Downey continues to follow the case closely, seeking the maximum penalty for the accused to ensure justice is served for their daughter's suffering. The legal battle is a critical component of Ashanti's fight, as the outcome will determine accountability for the devastating violence she endured.

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Community Support and The Road to Recovery

In the wake of the tragedy, the community rallied around Ashanti and her family. The immense medical expenses associated with third-degree burns and long-term critical care necessitated a major fundraising effort. Her mother, Donecia Davis, established an official GoFundMe campaign titled "Ashanti's Fight: Overcoming 70 Percent Burn Injury."

This recovery fund serves as the primary source of financial support for Ashanti's medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and necessary long-term care. The funds raised reflect the compassion of people across North Carolina and the nation, all hoping to ease the financial burden on the family as Ashanti faces years of physical and emotional recovery.

The recovery process is multifaceted, involving intensive skin graft surgeries, pain management, physical therapy, and psychological support. While the medical updates are scarce due to privacy concerns, the sustained need for funding and the continued "critical condition" status underscore that Ashanti Downey's fight is far from over. Her story has become a tragic symbol, motivating advocates to push for greater awareness of domestic violence and the support systems required for its survivors.