A 30-year-old woman was fatally stabbed during a barbecue in a Brooklyn park after a man became enraged when she rejected his advances, according to the New York Police Department. The incident occurred around 12:41 a.m. Tuesday in Lincoln Terrace–Arthur S. Somers Park.
Shakeema Davis, the victim, had organized the gathering. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny stated that the assailant, who had called Davis to ascertain the event's location, repeatedly solicited her for sex throughout the evening. Davis consistently refused, leading to a verbal argument that eventually turned physical.
Kenny explained that Davis threw a drink on the assailant, who then began to assault her. She reportedly picked up a barbecue grill in an attempt to fend him off, striking him with it. Following this, the assailant produced a knife and stabbed Davis multiple times.
She was transported to Brookdale Hospital Medical Center, where she died from her injuries. Investigators have identified a person of interest and the vehicle used in the escape, but no arrest has been made as probable cause has not yet been established.
Kenny indicated that the victim and the suspected assailant had a prior relationship, which he suggested was why he was invited to the gathering and why he persistently sought sexual contact. However, Davis' mother, Adra Pegues, told reporters that her daughter had only gone on one date with the man and did not wish to see him again. Pegues described him as a "coward" and a "weak man."
Approximately 15 to 20 people, including Davis' 7-year-old son, were present during the attack. Some witnesses reportedly attempted to intervene and detain the suspect, but he brandished a knife at them.
Another attendee, identified by WPIX as Freddie, a long-time friend of Davis, recounted taking off his shirt to compress her wounds in an effort to save her life. He stated that Davis took her last breaths in his arms.