A Georgia man will spend the rest of his life in prison after being convicted of the brutal 2021 murder of Deanna Ellison, the mother of his child. The case has shocked the community, not just because of the extreme violence involved, but because it happened in front of the couple’s infant.
What Happened to Deanna Ellison
According to the District Attorney’s office, Deanna Ellison, 29, had ended her relationship with Shawn Bolden, now 33, on Mother’s Day in 2020 while she was pregnant. Despite the breakup, the couple had agreed to co-parent their baby.
But on May 6, 2021 — just days before what would have been her first Mother’s Day as a mom — tragedy struck. Authorities say Bolden showed up at her home and shot her 11 times, even reloading his 9mm revolver and continuing to fire at her body. Shockingly, all of this happened in front of their 5-month-old child.
The Crime Scene and Arrest
Neighbors heard the gunshots and saw a man running from the house. Police were called, and when first responders arrived, they had to force entry into the home. Inside, they found Ellison’s lifeless body riddled with bullets, while the baby was found crying on the bed — almost caught between the headboard, according to WRDW.
A 911 caller later reported that Bolden had admitted to shooting his “baby mama.” A BOLO (Be On the Lookout) was issued, and police across multiple counties chased Bolden in a high-speed pursuit. He was eventually caught and taken into custody.
Trial and Sentencing
On December 1, 2025, a jury took only 35 minutes to find Bolden guilty of malice murder and felony murder. He was sentenced on January 18, 2026 to life in prison without the possibility of parole, plus an additional five years for using a firearm during a felony. That sentence will be served consecutively.
District Attorney Shalena Cook Jones confirmed that justice was served swiftly and firmly. The quick verdict reflected the strength of the evidence and the horror of the crime.
Remembering Deanna Ellison
Deanna’s death leaves behind not just a grieving family, but a child who will grow up without her. Her obituary described her as a person who always looked for the good in every situation and had a laugh so joyful that it could lift anyone’s spirits.
“She was an incredible person that always looked for the good in every experience and everyone she encountered,” her family wrote. “Her laugh was so big and bright that anyone who heard it couldn’t help but feel a sense of joy.”
A Stark Reminder of Domestic Violence
This case is a painful example of how quickly domestic violence can escalate to tragedy. Deanna had left the relationship, yet still became a victim of fatal violence. Her story highlights the ongoing need for awareness, support systems, and protection for people experiencing threats from former partners — especially when children are involved.
