PHILADELPHIA — A woman has been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 28-year-old woman in North Philadelphia earlier this week, police said, following an investigation that drew public attention after videos of the incident circulated online.
The Philadelphia Police Department said Zayahshay Davis was taken into custody on Wednesday evening and is being held in connection with the death of Sariah Conover, who was stabbed on Monday along the 1300 block of West Lehigh Avenue in North Philadelphia. Police said the arrest was made near 12th and Huntingdon streets after investigators sought public assistance in locating the suspect.
According to police, officers responded to the scene shortly before 6 p.m. on Monday after reports of a stabbing. Conover suffered multiple stab wounds and was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Authorities said she later died from her injuries.
Police identified Davis as a suspect and issued a public request for information before her arrest. On Wednesday night, officials confirmed that she had been apprehended and transferred to Homicide Headquarters for processing. Investigators said additional details regarding the charges were expected to be released through the court process.
“A woman is now in police custody in connection with a fatal stabbing in North Philadelphia,” police said in a statement reported by local media.
Investigators have released few details about what led to the confrontation. Witnesses told local media that a fight occurred before the stabbing. Authorities are also reviewing video footage that appeared online after the incident. Police have not publicly confirmed claims circulating on social media regarding the circumstances that preceded the altercation.
The case has generated significant attention in Philadelphia, with police previously offering a reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. The Philadelphia Police Department's Homicide Unit continues to investigate the killing and has urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Court records reviewed on Thursday did not immediately clarify whether Davis had retained legal representation. Details regarding a preliminary hearing and formal arraignment were not immediately available. Authorities have not disclosed a motive, and investigators said the inquiry remains active.
As of Thursday, Davis remained in custody while prosecutors reviewed the case and investigators continued gathering evidence related to the fatal stabbing, according to police.
