Knaus Berry Farm owner Rachel Knaus Grafe still critical after alleged beating by her son
MIAMI - The daughter of the owner of famed Knaus Berry Farm spoke out Tuesday about the attack that left her mother in critical condition, allegedly at the hands of her son.
Natalie Grafe said in a written statement that the family is grateful for the community's support.
"We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayer, and support from the community," the statement said. "Mom remains in the ICU in critical but stable condition with an optimistic prognosis. Dad will make a full recovery at home. We appreciate all continued thoughts of strength and healing for the entire family, including my brother, who suffers from traumatic brain injury."
Rachel Knaus Grafe, 66, was beaten and nearly killed in her home, at 15775 SW 249th Street, on Friday evening. Investigators have said she suffered several injuries to her head and chest following the attack.
Travis Grafe, 40, reportedly beat his mother with a flashlight during the incident, according to the police report.
He appeared Monday in court before a judge who found probable cause and ordered him held him without bond. He was also ordered to stay away from his parents.
A witness told police that while he was on the phone with Herbert, he heard Travis tell him that he had killed his mother. The witness said he heard Travis tell Herbert that he wanted money or he would kill him too, according to the arrest report.
Travis Grafe then reportedly attacked his father, who suffered a contusion and bruise to his left temple.
This isn't the first time he's had a run-in with law enforcement.
In 2013, Grafe was arrested for assault, burglary, and possession of a firebomb. Those charges, though, were dismissed after the judge ruled he was mentally incompetent to stand trial due to an apparent traumatic brain injury in his past. Since that time, Grafe had been living with his parents.
Rachel Knaus Grafe, who was taken to Jackson South Medical Center, remained Tuesday in critical condition.
On Instagram, her family said she has a long road to recovery but they are hopeful. Herbert Grafe's injuries were less severe and he is expected to make a full recovery.
"I'm sorry to hear that because I've been coming here for years and this is an institution. I've been coming here for as long as they've been open and I was so sorry to hear what happened because that is just tragic," said Donna Falana who stopped by the farm's store.
"Very disturbed. It's very upsetting. You'd never think that your child could do that to you. I'm a mother so," said Nancy Farrell, another customer.
Travis Grafe was charged with attempted murder and two counts of aggravated battery.
CBS4's Peter D'Oench spoke with two members of the parents' family and while the said they appreciated the support from the community, they did not want to say anything on camera.
CBS4 interviewed Rachel Grafe in October of 2021 when Knaus Berry Farr reopened for the season and she told us "Everyone is here. It's kind of wild but we will eat through the day. We will make as many as we can. We start at 330 in the morning and we make as many as we can."