CLEVELAND — A woman was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for stabbing and killing a 3-year-old and stabbing his mother at Giant Eagle last fall.
“In my years as prosecutor, I have seen unimaginable acts of violence — but this is among the most heartbreaking,” said Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael C. O’Malley. “Bionca Ellis’s horrific actions warrant nothing less than life without parole. My thoughts and prayers remain with Julian Wood’s family as they continue to grieve this unimaginable loss.”
Ellis, 34, stole two knives from the Volunteers of America Thrift Store next to Giant Eagle near Lorain Road and Dover Center Road on June 3, before she walked next door to the Giant Eagle. As Ellis entered the Giant Eagle, she spotted the 37-year-old victim and her 3-year-old child, Julian Wood, in the store and followed them. After the victim paid for her groceries and walked towards the exit, Ellis followed the victim and her son into the parking lot. She continued to follow them to their vehicle and immediately stabbed the 3-year-old, who was sitting in the shopping cart, multiple times. His mother attempted to pull him out and was also stabbed. Several people called the police and reported the stabbing.
The North Olmsted Police Department (NOPD) arrived at the scene and located Ellis walking toward Dover Center Road with a knife in her hand. She was arrested at the scene without incident. North Olmsted Police officers and EMS began providing life-saving aid to Julian Wood. Julian Wood and his mother were transported to a nearby hospital. Julian Wood was later pronounced dead. His mother was treated for her injuries.
Ellis was found guilty on Oct. 15 on the following charges:
- One count of aggravated murder
- Two counts of murder
- Two counts of attempted murder
- Two counts of felonious assault
- One count of endangering children
- One count of misdemeanor theft
Madison MacArthur
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