Former Duke football player charged with stabbing a Charlotte Realtor to death

A former Duke University football player, Brandon David Braxton, has been charged with the murder of Whitney Elizabeth Hurd, whose body was found in July 2024 at a townhome in south Charlotte. Braxton, 33, was arrested Thursday night and is facing charges of first-degree murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon, according to Mecklenburg County jail records. As of Saturday, he remains in the Mecklenburg County jail without bond.

The Crime and Arrest Details

Whitney Hurd, 32, was found fatally stabbed in her home on Werburgh Street in Charlotte. Authorities say Braxton is accused of killing Hurd and stealing her BMW and iPhone, based on evidence and court records. The crime has shocked the local community, and investigators have been working diligently to bring closure to the case.

Brandon Braxton’s Football Career

Braxton was a standout athlete at Duke University, where he played from 2010 to 2013. During his time there, he was a two-time Academic All-ACC selection and was primarily known for his role as a wide receiver. In 2012, he also briefly played safety. He was regarded as a promising player on the Duke football roster, with a reputation for both athleticism and academic excellence.

A Family Legacy in Football

Brandon Braxton comes from a football family. His father, David Braxton, was a defensive end at Wake Forest, where he lettered from 1986 to 1988. David Braxton went on to have a successful professional career, being selected by the Minnesota Vikings as a second-round draft pick in 1989. Over six seasons, he played for the Vikings, Phoenix (Arizona) Cardinals, and Cincinnati Bengals, leaving behind a legacy in the NFL.

Previous Legal Issues

This is not the first time Braxton has faced legal troubles. On October 27, 2024, he was charged with assault after allegedly attempting to grab a woman’s shorts. In the same incident, he was charged with indecent exposure for allegedly exposing his nude body to a person at the corner of Sixth and Church streets in Charlotte. These charges further complicate his already troubled legal history.

Next Steps in the Case

Braxton’s first court appearance for the murder charge is anticipated soon, as the investigation into Hurd’s death continues. As the case unfolds, the community remains in shock over the tragic loss and the disturbing details surrounding the suspect’s past.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.