Woman declared unfit for trial in killing 3-year-old outside store

A 33-year-old woman from Cleveland, Bionca Ellis, who allegedly fatally stabbed a 3-year-old boy and injured his mother outside an Ohio supermarket, has been deemed unfit to stand trial by Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge John Russo. The ruling was issued on Friday, with Ellis set to remain hospitalized indefinitely, with the possibility of facing trial if her condition improves. Initially, her bail was set at $5 million, and a tentative trial date of December 9 had been arranged.

The tragic incident occurred on June 3 at a Giant Eagle store in North Olmsted, a suburb of Cleveland. Ellis reportedly spotted Julian Wood and his mother, Margot Wood, inside the store and proceeded to follow them into the store’s parking lot. In an abrupt and swift attack that lasted less than five seconds, Ellis allegedly stabbed the young boy twice before walking away. Julian succumbed to his injuries at a hospital, and Margot received medical treatment for a stab wound to her shoulder, sustained while trying to protect her son during the attack.

Authorities have yet to unveil a motive for the violent outburst, asserting that it appears to have been a random act. Ellis is being represented by the public defender’s office, which typically refrains from commenting on ongoing cases.