Topic: Dueling Legend Dies Tragically in Armed Robbery

Darien Fenner

Date: 2011-11-12 14:53 EST
http://i738.photobucket.com/albums/xx21/dfenner_photo/75546615.jpg Senior Columnist: Madu Adeniji

Dueling Legend Dies Tragically in Armed Robbery November 12, 2011

NEW HAVEN, R.D. —- Sources from the Outback have confirmed that Teresa Graziano, veteran caller and long-time familiar presence within the dueling community, has died.

According to a police report filed earlier this week, Graziano appears do have been the victim of a fatal robbery that took place around seven P.M. on Monday November 7th only a few blocks from her home. Her wallet, cash, jewelry, and cell phone were taken.

The attack has been called a "random act of violence" by the Watch commissioner. While it appears that no witnesses or suspects have surfaced, officers adamantly insist that they cannot comment on the ongoing investigation.

Though none of the Graziano family could be reached for comment, the Kitsune Foundation has issued a statement on their behalf:

"While Teresa Graziano, best known as Mama G, was never a fighting member of the Wrecking Crew Dueling Team, she was the matriarch of a group of wonderful young people within our family.

We express our mutual sorrow for this tragic event and hope apprehension of the perpetrators who did this heinous act is swift and justice is served. We also ask that the family's privacy be respected in these times.

Finally, Kitsune will be making a contribution to St. Margaret's Orphanage in remembrance of this beloved woman."

Teresa "Mama G" Graziano worked tirelessly within the dueling community to foster a sense of unity and mutual support. Her history in the duels goes back as far as seven to eight years, not only as an affiliated caller but as a long-time league supporter.

A copy of her obituary can be found below.

Teresa Graziano, 53, of New Haven and formerly of Queens, New York, died Monday, November 7, 2011.

Known lovingly as "Mama G", she had served as a Duel of Fists caller, a surrogate mother to many of RhyDin's transplants, and a volunteer at St. Margaret's Orphanage. An accomplished chef, she believed the kitchen to be the heart of any house and hers was always filled with food, laughter, and love.

She is survived by her children, Maria Graziano, Chris and Alexandria Graziano, Tony Graziano, and Myria Graziano; and grandchildren, TJ Graziano, Alicia Graziano, and Adriana Graziano-Bojangles.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 from 12:30 pm until 1:30 pm at St Margaret's Chapel at 5349 West Grove Road, New Haven, with a private service immediately following at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to St. Margaret's Orphanage.

Arrangements under the direction of the Caylor Funeral Home, 3224 Brundle Avenue, New Haven.

"Sins of the Past Come Rushing Back to Bite You," with player's permission. Thank you!]]