Winston-Salem, North Carolina — The family of a 16-year-old high school student who was stabbed to death during a fight inside a school bathroom is seeking legal counsel after local prosecutors announced they will not file charges against the other student involved, calling the incident a tragic accident.
The fatal encounter occurred Tuesday morning at North Forsyth High School, where Cameron Graham, 16, got into a physical altercation with an 18-year-old student, according to reports from ABC 45, Fox 8, and WFMY. Authorities say the confrontation escalated quickly and ended with Graham suffering a fatal stab wound.
Fight reportedly began over THC pen
According to investigators, the altercation began after the two students argued over a THC vape pen inside a school bathroom. Reports indicate that Graham had brought a knife to school that day.
During the confrontation, the two teenagers reportedly fell to the ground and struggled, with both having their hands on the knife at various points. Officials say the older student eventually gained control of the weapon and stabbed Graham through the sternum, with the blade piercing his heart, according to ABC 45.
Emergency responders were called immediately, but despite lifesaving efforts, Graham died from his injuries.
District attorney calls incident an accident
At a press conference on Thursday, Forsyth County District Attorney Jim O’Neill said his office carefully reviewed evidence, witness statements, and surveillance footage before determining that no criminal charges would be filed.
O’Neill emphasized that the two students knew each other well and were considered friends.
“I can tell you that he cried and cried when he learned his friend was dead,” O’Neill told reporters.
The district attorney added that there was no evidence of intent or malice, describing the stabbing as an accidental outcome of a physical struggle.
“There’s not a shred of evidence to suggest that this was anything more than an accident,” O’Neill said. “We have no enemy to punish here.”
Sheriff describes chaotic scene
Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough also addressed the incident, describing an emotional and chaotic scene when he arrived at the school.
According to the sheriff, the 18-year-old student was crying and wailing, while Graham was struggling for his life with school staff, administrators, and students gathered nearby.
Officials said the surviving student attempted to help after the stabbing.
O’Neill alleged that the 18-year-old tried to render aid, attempting to pack the wound and apply pressure until first responders arrived.
Family disputes decision not to prosecute
Despite prosecutors’ conclusions, Graham’s family has publicly expressed frustration and grief over the decision not to pursue charges.
Graham’s aunt, Charlita Summers, said the family plans to seek legal counsel following the announcement.
The family will be “seeking legal counsel to assist with this investigation,” Summers told WXII.
She described Cameron as a well-loved teenager who had a positive impact on those around him.
“He was a good boy who loved sports, people, and was a beacon of light in his community,” she said.
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Remembering Cameron Graham
In the days following his death, family members and supporters launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover expenses and support loved ones during the grieving process.
The fundraiser describes Cameron as “very smart, outgoing, loving, funny, and caring,” adding that he was deeply valued by his family, friends, teachers, and classmates.
His death has sparked broader conversations in the Winston-Salem community about school safety, weapons on campus, and the presence of vape devices and THC products among students.
School safety concerns raised
While authorities maintain that the stabbing was accidental, the incident has raised serious concerns among parents and educators about how a knife was brought onto campus and how disputes between students can escalate rapidly.
School officials have not yet announced whether disciplinary actions or policy changes will follow, but the tragedy has left many questioning existing safety measures.
Case closed, questions remain
With prosecutors declining to press charges, the criminal investigation appears closed. However, the family’s pursuit of legal counsel suggests the matter may continue through other legal avenues.
For Cameron Graham’s loved ones, the focus remains on honoring his memory and seeking answers about how a school-day argument turned fatal.
What are your thoughts on this case and the decision not to file charges? Share your perspective in the comments below.
