Buncombe Mother Charged After Infant Stabbed to Death

Sheriff's office says 10-month-old Enoch Chappell died from multiple stab wounds.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:22pm

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A Buncombe County mother has been charged with first-degree murder and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon after her 10-month-old son, Enoch Chappell, was found with multiple stab wounds and later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has shaken the small community of Barnardsville and raised concerns about domestic violence and child safety in the region. The sheriff's office has expressed their condolences and gratitude for the first responders who tried to save the infant's life.

The details

According to the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office, they responded to a call reporting a stabbing at a home in Barnardsville around 2 p.m. on March 26. When first responders arrived, they found the 10-month-old infant, Enoch Chappell, suffering from multiple stab wounds. The child was rushed to Mission Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

  • The incident occurred around 2 p.m. on March 26, 2026.
  • Enoch Chappell was pronounced dead at Mission Hospital on March 26, 2026.

The players

Ciara Frederick

The mother of the 10-month-old victim, who has been charged with first-degree murder and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon.

Enoch Chappell

The 10-month-old infant who was found with multiple stab wounds and later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Buncombe County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and is investigating the case.

Barnardsville Fire Department

The first responders who arrived at the scene and tried to save the infant's life.

Buncombe County EMS

The emergency medical services that also responded to the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone impacted by this tragedy.”

— Quentin Miller, Buncombe County Sheriff

“Members of the Barnardsville Fire Department and Buncombe County EMS did everything they could to save this child's life, and for that we are grateful. Our hearts are broken.”

— Quentin Miller, Buncombe County Sheriff

What’s next

The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation into the incident, and the suspect, Ciara Frederick, is being held in custody pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and support for families facing domestic violence and mental health challenges, as well as the importance of robust child welfare systems to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities.