Opelika Mourns Loss of 22-Year-Old Janiah Thomas, Fatally Stabbed in Tragic Incident
With heavy hearts and an overwhelming sense of grief, the city of Opelika, Alabama, is mourning the sudden and senseless loss of 22-year-old Janiah Thomas, who was fatally stabbed on July 13, 2025. Her tragic death has sent shockwaves throughout the community, leaving family, friends, and neighbors grappling with pain and disbelief.
According to the Opelika Police Department, officers were dispatched around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday night to a reported stabbing at an apartment complex near the intersection of Fox Run Parkway and Southview Drive. Upon arrival, officers found Janiah suffering from multiple stab wounds. Emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving efforts at the scene before transporting her to East Alabama Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Authorities have confirmed that an individual has been taken into custody in connection with the attack, though the suspect’s identity has not yet been released pending formal charges. Investigators believe the incident may have stemmed from a domestic dispute, though the case remains under active investigation.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of such a young and vibrant member of our community,” said Opelika Police Chief Shane Healey in a statement Sunday morning. “Janiah’s life was taken far too soon, and we are committed to ensuring that justice is served on her behalf.”
Janiah Thomas was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend. Known for her warm smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering kindness, she touched countless lives in her 22 years. A graduate of Opelika High School, Janiah was pursuing her dreams of becoming a nurse, recently completing her CNA certification and working at a local care facility where coworkers remember her as compassionate, dedicated, and always willing to go the extra mile for her patients.
“She lit up every room she entered,” said longtime friend Maya Brooks. “She was the kind of person who checked on everyone else, who never let you feel alone. She had so many dreams, so much love to give.”
In the days since her passing, the outpouring of love and support for Janiah’s family has been immense. A memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes now surrounds the steps of her apartment complex. Vigils are being organized by local churches and youth organizations to honor her memory and provide support for those grieving this unimaginable loss.
“This is not just a tragedy for one family, it’s a tragedy for all of Opelika,” said Pastor Corey Williams of New Hope Church. “We are a community that believes in lifting each other up, and right now, Janiah’s family needs that love and strength more than ever.”
The Thomas family released a statement expressing their deep sorrow and gratitude for the community’s support:
“Our hearts are shattered by the loss of our beautiful Janiah. She was our light, our laughter, our joy. We ask for privacy as we try to process this unbearable pain, and we thank everyone who has reached out to comfort us.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist the family with funeral expenses and to help establish a scholarship in Janiah’s name — one that would support other young women pursuing careers in healthcare, just as she had dreamed.
As the investigation continues, Opelika residents are left to grapple with the loss of a life full of promise — a young woman who had so much to offer, whose smile brightened lives, and whose kindness will never be forgotten.
Funeral arrangements are currently being planned and will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the community holds tight to the memory of Janiah Thomas — a daughter, a friend, a healer, and a bright light extinguished far too soon.