Detroit Woman Assaulted and Robbed While Selling Valentine's Day Gifts

Kim Braxton says she was attacked by three men while selling gift baskets on a street corner she has used for years.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A Detroit woman named Kim Braxton was allegedly assaulted and robbed while selling Valentine's Day gift baskets on the east side of the city. Braxton says three men approached her about the prices of the baskets, then hit her, knocked her down, and stole the remaining baskets. Braxton has been selling gift baskets at the same intersection for four years without incident until this attack.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the risks small business owners can face, especially those operating in high-crime areas. Braxton's story also raises concerns about public safety and the need for adequate security measures to protect vendors and customers in Detroit's neighborhoods.

The details

According to Braxton, the attack occurred at the intersection of Houston Whittier Street and Gratiot Avenue, where she has been selling Valentine's Day gift baskets for the past four years. She says three men approached her, questioned the prices of the baskets, and then physically assaulted her, knocking her to the ground before stealing the remaining baskets.

  • The incident occurred on February 14, 2026, the day before Valentine's Day.
  • Braxton has been selling gift baskets at the same intersection for the past four years.

The players

Kim Braxton

A Detroit resident who has been selling Valentine's Day gift baskets at the same street corner for the past four years.

Detroit Police

The law enforcement agency investigating the assault and robbery of Kim Braxton.

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What they’re saying

“I can't believe this. They're not going to stop me from selling baskets.”

— Kim Braxton (Facebook)

What’s next

The Detroit Police are continuing their investigation into the incident and are working to identify the three suspects involved.

The takeaway

This attack on a small business owner highlights the need for improved public safety measures and security support for vendors operating in high-crime areas of Detroit. It also underscores the resilience of entrepreneurs like Kim Braxton, who refuse to be deterred from pursuing their livelihoods despite facing such challenges.