Travis Grafe, the 40-year-old son of Knaus Berry Farm’s co-owners, has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of his mother, Rachel Grafe, according to court records.
Travis Grafe was previously charged with attempted premeditated murder and aggravated battery on a person aged 65 or older for beating his parents, Rachel and Herbert Grafe, over money disputes on February 17.
Rachel and Herbert Grafe were beaten with a flashlight. While they were both hospitalized, Rachel Grafe died after a two-week stay in the hospital. CBS Miami reported that Travis Grafe was in custody but wasn’t present in court when the new charges were announced on Friday.
Travis Grafe has been given a trial hearing date of May 8, in addition to the new charges. Knaus Berry Farm announced on Instagram that it would be closed over the weekend and would reopen on Monday. Funeral services for Rachel Grafe will be held on Saturday at First United Methodist Church of Homestead.
Knaus Berry Farm is a popular Redland landmark that attracts thousands of visitors each season who come to enjoy the cinnamon rolls, pies, herb breads, and house-made jams.
Instead of flowers, the farm has requested that anyone wishing to show their support donate to the Brain Injury Association of America in the name of Rachel Knaus-Grafe at biausa.org.