A man has been found guilty of murdering his ex-girlfriend by shooting her multiple times in front of their infant child, leading to a potential life sentence in prison. Shawn Bolden Jr was convicted by a jury in just 35 minutes on charges including malice and felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a weapon during a crime in the 2021 killing of 29-year-old Deanna Ellison.

The tragic incident unfolded after Ellison decided to end the relationship following an altercation on Mother’s Day in 2020, when Bolden had reportedly slapped her for inviting her mother over for dinner while she was pregnant. Despite their separation, they had agreed to co-parent their child once born.

Nearly a year later, on May 6, 2021, police were alerted by neighbors who heard gunshots and saw a man fleeing from Ellison’s residence in Port Wentworth. Upon entering the home, first responders discovered a devastating scene with Ellison’s lifeless body covered in blood and their young child crying on the bed.

During the trial, the jury was presented with distressing body camera footage from the responding officers. The Medical Examiner confirmed that Deanna succumbed to 11 gunshot wounds. Shortly after the murder, authorities received a call from an unidentified individual reporting that Bolden had confessed to killing his ex-partner.

Following a statewide alert, Bolden was apprehended over 100 miles away on I-16 after a high-speed chase across two counties. Detectives described Bolden as uncooperative and manipulative during the investigation, showing little regard for the well-being of his child or the victim.

In a statement, District Attorney Shalena Cook Jones highlighted the brutality of the crime, noting that Bolden mercilessly shot Deanna multiple times in front of their infant, just days before what would have been her first Mother’s Day as a parent.

Bolden was also convicted of aggravated assault and weapon possession charges. His sentencing is scheduled for January 9, with the prosecution seeking a life sentence without the possibility of parole.

Deanna’s obituary praised her vibrant personality, kind heart, and positive outlook on life, describing her as a remarkable individual who brought joy and warmth to those around her.