Woman Charged with Attempted Homicide After Stabbing Child's Father

Carlisle woman claimed she had a "gift" for the victim before the attack.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 37-year-old woman named Shannon Kerns has been charged with attempted homicide and other related charges after police say she stabbed the father of her child in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Kerns allegedly told the victim she had a "present" for him before pulling out a knife and attacking him.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents involving parents of shared children can have severe emotional and psychological impacts on the child. This case raises concerns about the safety of children in contentious custody situations and the need for better mental health resources and intervention programs to prevent such violent outbursts.

The details

According to the police affidavit, Kerns got into the victim's vehicle after he had dropped off their child from school. She then told him she had a "present" for him, pulled out a kitchen knife from a grocery bag, and stabbed him in the head. Police found a second knife in the bag as well. The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

  • On February 19, 2026, the incident occurred around 3 PM.
  • Kerns' preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 4, 2026.

The players

Shannon Kerns

A 37-year-old woman from Carlisle, Pennsylvania who has been charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and possessing an instrument of crime for allegedly stabbing the father of her child.

The Victim

The 37-year-old father of Kerns' child, who was stabbed in the head by Kerns but suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She then pulled out a knife from a black grocery bag and stabbed the man, according to police. Police said there was a second knife in the bag.”

— Police (pennlive.com)

“She told officers that she intended to kill the man to keep their daughter safe, court documents said. Police did not explain the statement further.”

— Shannon Kerns (pennlive.com)

What’s next

Kerns' preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 4, 2026, where a judge will decide whether there is enough evidence to proceed with the attempted homicide and other charges.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for better mental health resources and intervention programs to support parents in high-conflict custody situations and prevent acts of domestic violence that can traumatize children. Community leaders and policymakers should examine ways to strengthen support systems and identify warning signs before such violence occurs.