Port Wentworth, Georgia – A Georgia murder case that shocked an entire community reached a decisive conclusion after a Chatham County jury convicted a man of brutally shooting his ex-girlfriend multiple times while their 5-month-old child was inside the room. Prosecutors said the killing was so violent that the jury needed only 35 minutes to return a guilty verdict.
Shawn Bolden Jr. was found guilty of malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a crime for the 2021 killing of 29-year-old Deanna Ellison, according to the Chatham County District Attorney’s Office.
Overview of the Case
Prosecutors described a deeply disturbing and deliberate act of violence. In their words, Bolden “emptied his 9mm revolver into Deanna, reloaded it and continued to shoot her lifeless body.” Investigators say the infant witnessed the attack from just a few feet away.
The pair had ended their relationship in 2020 after Bolden allegedly slapped Ellison on Mother’s Day for inviting her mother to dinner. Ellison, three months pregnant at the time, moved forward independently but agreed to co-parent the child once he was born. Despite no longer living together, they maintained contact for the sake of their baby.
What Happened on the Day of the Murder
On May 6, 2021, neighbors in Port Wentworth called police after hearing multiple gunshots and seeing a man run from Ellison’s home. When officers arrived, they kicked in the door and heard the frantic cries of an infant.
Inside, first responders found a devastating scene.
“Deanna’s lifeless body covered in blood and nearby the child thrown onto the bed nearly stuck in the headboard, crying and inconsolable,” prosecutors wrote.
The child was physically unharmed but traumatized by what had taken place.
The Search and Arrest
Shortly after the shooting, an anonymous caller contacted 911 and said Bolden admitted what he had done. Officers launched a statewide alert, and a patrol spotted Bolden’s vehicle roughly 100 miles away.
What followed was a high-speed chase across two counties. Georgia State Patrol troopers ultimately disabled his vehicle and arrested him. Detectives later reported that Bolden attempted to mislead investigators throughout the process and showed “no concern for the well-being of his son or Deanna.”
Prosecutors’ Response and Push for Justice
Chatham County District Attorney Shalena Cook Jones said the crime highlights the ongoing need to strengthen resources for victims and families.
“It is cases like this one that has the Chatham County DA’s Office more focused than ever on victims’ rights,” Jones stated. “We will continue to fight harder than ever to assure Deanna’s family and others their memories will remain in the forefront of our minds.”
The DA’s Office confirmed it will seek a sentence of life without the possibility of parole when Bolden appears in court for sentencing on January 9.
Remembering Deanna Ellison
Ellison’s family described her as a radiant, compassionate woman who brought positivity to everyone she met. Her obituary said she had “a zest for life, a huge personality, a heart of gold and a mind of her very own.”
It continued:
“Her laugh was so big and bright that anyone who heard it couldn’t help but feel joy. Her smile was warm, comforting and sincere. Her voice was strong and encouraging, and her presence was absolutely felt.”
Domestic Violence Context
The case has renewed conversations about intimate partner violence and the dangers many victims face when attempting to leave an abusive relationship. Advocates note that separation periods often carry the highest risk, especially when young children are involved.
Officials emphasize the importance of reporting early signs of violence—including threats, physical force, or controlling behavior—and seeking help from local shelters, hotlines, and victim-assistance programs.
Conclusion
The community awaits the sentencing hearing as Ellison’s family continues to grieve the loss of a mother whose life was cut short. Prosecutors say the conviction represents a step toward justice but acknowledge that no verdict can ease the pain of what happened inside that home.
If you have thoughts on this case or experiences to share, use the comments below to join the discussion.
