Second arrest made in connection to 14-month-old’s death in Morganton

MORGANTON, N.C. — A second arrest has been made in the death of a 14-month-old in Morganton.

The Burke County Sheriff’s Office says Gracie Cook has been charged with murder.

Cook’s arrest comes after an investigation dating back to last year.

Samuel Hensley was initially arrested and charged with second-degree murder on May 21.

On Nov. 7, 2025, the sheriff’s office responded to a cardiac arrest call at 2509 NC 18-US 64, Lot 26, Morganton.

When they arrived, deputies found a deceased 14-month-old boy.