Detroit Mother Stabs 19-Year-Old Inside Kids Foot Locker After Being Called “Broke” When Her Card Declined, Police Say

DETROIT, MICHIGAN — A violent confrontation inside a Kids Foot Locker escalated into a near-fatal attack when a 40-year-old mother allegedly stabbed a 19-year-old woman, identified as Suniya Jenkins, after her debit card was declined and she was reportedly called “broke.” Early reports say the suspect pulled out a knife and stabbed Jenkins four times, leaving her with a punctured lung and severe injuries. Jenkins, who remains hospitalized, says she will press charges, though she also expressed sadness for the attacker’s children who witnessed the stabbing.

How the Incident Unfolded Inside the Store

According to circulating reports and witness accounts, the dispute began when the older woman’s payment card failed at checkout. A verbal back-and-forth ensued, during which the teen allegedly referred to the woman as “broke,” triggering an immediate escalation.

Witnesses say the suspect, who had her children present, drew a knife and attacked Jenkins, stabbing her four times in front of multiple shoppers and store employees. The teen collapsed on the floor as bystanders rushed to call 911. Emergency responders transported her to a local hospital, where she continues to receive treatment for life-threatening injuries.

Victim Speaks From Hospital Bed

Despite sustaining a punctured lung and multiple stab wounds, Jenkins delivered a statement from her hospital bed. She confirmed she plans to press charges against the attacker but expressed unexpected compassion for the children who witnessed the violence, saying she feels “sad for them” and hopes they receive proper support. Her remarks quickly spread across social media, prompting conversations about trauma exposure, retail conflict escalation, and the emotional maturity shown by the young victim.

Community Concerns About Rising Retail Violence

The incident has intensified concerns about increasing retail violence across the country. Many Detroit-area residents have voiced fear over how quickly routine shopping trips can turn dangerous, especially when disputes involve payment issues or customer frustration.

Parents in the community expressed alarm that children were present during the stabbing, highlighting the psychological impact such moments can have on minors. Some shoppers have called for enhanced mall security, stricter no-weapons enforcement, and improved conflict-prevention protocols inside stores.

Police Investigation and Next Steps

Authorities are working to confirm the suspect’s identity, her current location, and the full timeline of events. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence from the scene.

Legal experts note that the attacker could face several felony charges, including assault with intent to cause great bodily harm, child endangerment, and potentially attempted murder, depending on the final medical assessment of Jenkins’ injuries. The severity of the victim’s condition will likely influence the charges prosecutors decide to pursue.

Stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for continuing updates on developing crime stories, community safety alerts, and local public safety coverage.