Daughter Charged in Brutal Stabbing of Mother

Ashland Crank allegedly attacked her mother with multiple knives, leaving her with nearly 20 stab wounds.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A 24-year-old Arizona woman named Ashland Crank has been charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and disorderly conduct after allegedly stabbing her mother nearly 20 times. Crank initially told police that her mother had stabbed herself, but witnesses reported seeing Crank attack and try to drag her mother into the garage.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex and often tragic nature of domestic violence, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in determining the truth when family members provide conflicting accounts. It also raises questions about mental health resources and support for families dealing with issues like alcoholism and mental illness.

The details

According to the probable cause statement, police were called to the scene on Monday morning by a third party who said Crank had stabbed her mother. When officers arrived, they found the mother lying on the ground with multiple stab wounds to her body and neck. Crank initially claimed her mother had stabbed herself, but witnesses reported seeing Crank attack and try to drag her mother into the garage. The victim told police that Crank had attacked her from behind after she said she was taking Crank to a mental health facility for treatment.

  • On Monday morning, police were called to the scene of the stabbing.
  • The victim sustained nearly 20 stab wounds during the attack.

The players

Ashland Crank

A 24-year-old Arizona woman who has been charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and disorderly conduct for allegedly stabbing her mother.

The Victim

The mother of Ashland Crank, who sustained nearly 20 stab wounds during the attack and required an air tube while hospitalized.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Ashland Crank out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater mental health resources and support for families dealing with issues like alcoholism and mental illness, as well as the complexities of domestic violence investigations when family members provide conflicting accounts.