WSAT

Two charged in Rowan County stabbing case

ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. (June 8, 2026) - On Saturday, June 6, 2026, at approximately 6:04 p.m., deputies with the Rowan County Sheriff's Office responded to 142 Larin Way in eastern Rowan County in reference to a reported stabbing.

Upon arrival, deputies learned that an altercation at the residence had resulted in one individual being stabbed in the back. Prior to the arrival of first responders, the victim was transported by a private vehicle to Novant Health Rowan Medical Center in Salisbury for treatment.

Investigators identified the suspect as 37-year-old Daniel Ray Kesler, who had left the scene before deputies arrived.

Kesler was later located at a residence on Bringle Ferry Road along with 36-year-old Leah Annette Burns, who was also present at the Larin Way residence during the incident.

During the investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at the Larin Way property and seized blood evidence and narcotics.

Investigators also recovered blood evidence and a knife believed to have been used in the assault from the vehicle Kesler was operating.

The victim, 46-year-old Travis Elmer Cox, sustained serious injuries and was hospitalized for treatment. Cox is expected to recover.

As a result of the investigation, Kesler was charged with Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury. Burns was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

As of Sunday evening, both individuals remained in custody at the Rowan County Detention Center. Kesler was being held under a $40,000 secured bond, while Burns was being held under a $1,500 secured bond.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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