Teen Charged with Murder, Assault in Wake County Attack

16-year-old Jackson Borrello accused of killing 12-year-old girl, seriously injuring 9-year-old boy with knife and hammer

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 16-year-old North Carolina teen has been charged with murder and assault after allegedly killing a 12-year-old girl and seriously injuring a 9-year-old boy with a knife and hammer in a home near Fuquay-Varina. Jackson Borrello was found nearby and taken into custody, with all three individuals known to each other. The girl later died from her injuries, while the 9-year-old boy remains hospitalized.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has shaken the local community and raised concerns about youth violence and access to deadly weapons. Authorities are investigating the motive and circumstances behind the attack.

The details

According to arrest records, Borrello allegedly attacked the 9-year-old boy with a knife and hammer. The 12-year-old girl later died from her injuries, while the 9-year-old boy was seriously hurt. Borrello was charged with murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury.

  • The incident occurred around 5:20 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026.
  • Borrello was charged on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
  • Borrello's first court appearance is scheduled for February 25, 2026.

The players

Jackson Borrello

A 16-year-old North Carolina resident who has been charged with murder and assault in the attack.

12-year-old girl

The victim who was killed in the attack.

9-year-old boy

The victim who was seriously injured in the attack and remains hospitalized.

Wake County deputies

Law enforcement officials who responded to the incident and apprehended the suspect.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on February 25, 2026 whether to allow Borrello to be released on bond pending further legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has underscored the need for greater resources and support for youth mental health and violence prevention programs in the local community, as well as stronger regulations around access to deadly weapons by minors.