Sandy Springs, GA – A Georgia mother is facing multiple felony charges after police discovered her 11-year-old daughter dead and propped upright in a recliner inside their Sandy Springs condominium. Officers say the girl had been cleaned, positioned, and partially covered after suffering several stab wounds.
According to early details shared in local reporting, investigators found a disturbing scene inside the home. The mother, 42-year-old Shannen Grimes, allegedly attempted to take her own life before officers arrived, prompting a welfare check that led to the discovery of her daughter, Genesis, deceased near the living room couch.
Grimes is now in custody at the Fulton County Jail, charged with two counts of murder, cruelty to children, possession of a knife during the commission of a felony, and tampering with evidence.
Initial Call and Police Response
Authorities were dispatched to the Laurel Grove condominiums on November 14 after Grimes’ sister dialed 911, reporting that Grimes claimed she had tried to harm herself. Responding officers were let inside the residence by the sister, where they immediately noticed the mother lying on a couch with a significant cut to one wrist.
Just steps away, officers found the body of 11-year-old Genesis, seated upright in a recliner with a blanket or towel over her legs. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
When officers questioned Grimes about what happened, she reportedly uttered the chilling phrase,
“I happened.”
Evidence of Cleaning and Staging
Investigators noted that the girl appeared to have at least four puncture wounds to her neck and shoulder, yet there was very little visible blood on her body. This led officers to believe she had been cleaned before being placed in the recliner.
Elsewhere in the home, however, officers found significant evidence suggesting a violent struggle:
- Blood-soaked paper towels
- A bucket containing bloody items
- Trash cans filled with materials used to wipe up blood
Near the kitchen sink, police located several knives with apparent blood stains. In Grimes’ bedroom, investigators recovered blood-soaked clothing and bedding, including a shirt with holes around the neck and shoulder area, consistent with Genesis’ injuries.
Alleged Confession During Medical Transport
While being transported to a hospital for self-inflicted injuries, Grimes allegedly told officers that she had stabbed her daughter in the neck. Police later included this admission in their arrest documents.
After being treated, she was booked into the Fulton County Jail. As of now, no bond has been set.
Community Impact and Child Safety Concerns
Incidents of intrafamily violence such as this often leave communities shaken. Mental health crises, untreated trauma, and isolation are among the most cited contributing factors in similar cases nationwide.
Experts emphasize the importance of recognizing warning signs when a parent or caregiver is in distress:
- Sudden withdrawal from family or friends
- Expressions of hopelessness or self-harm
- Unexplained anger, paranoia, or emotional instability
Neighbors and relatives are sometimes the first to notice concerning behavior. Early intervention—whether through a welfare check, mental health hotline, or emergency services—can help prevent tragedies.
Police Continuing Investigation
Sandy Springs Police have stated that the investigation remains active as they comb through the home, digital devices, and interviews to determine what may have led to the girl’s death. Additional charges could be filed depending on forensic findings and autopsy results.
Authorities also noted that the staging of the scene and efforts to clean up blood will play a significant role in the timeline of events and prosecutorial decisions.
Conclusion
The death of 11-year-old Genesis has left a community mourning and searching for answers. As investigators continue gathering evidence, the legal process for Shannen Grimes will move forward in Fulton County. More information is expected to be released as the case develops.
What do you think of this? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
