North Olmsted, Ohio – A Cleveland woman faces charges of murder, attempted murder, and various other offenses following the tragic stabbing death of a 3-year-old boy outside a grocery store in northeastern Ohio. Bionca Ellis, 32, allegedly attacked the toddler, Julian Wood, alongside his 38-year-old mother outside a Giant Eagle in North Olmsted.
According to authorities, the incident, described as a random act of violence, unfolded in the store’s parking lot and was captured on surveillance video. Julian was stabbed twice, while his mother sustained a stab wound to the shoulder. Tragically, Julian did not survive his injuries despite paramedics rushing him to a nearby hospital.
In addition to murder and attempted murder charges, Ellis faces allegations of aggravated murder, endangering children, tampering with evidence, aggravated theft, and two counts of felonious assault. She is currently in custody on a $1 million bond.
Video footage obtained by authorities shows Ellis wielding a knife moments before the fatal attack. Ellis was observed stealing two knives from a nearby thrift store shortly before targeting Julian and his mother as they exited the grocery store. Following the incident, Ellis was arrested at the scene without resistance.
In a heartbreaking statement, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O’Malley expressed his condolences to the Wood family, promising to pursue justice for Julian. Prior to the attack, Ellis was facing eviction from her Cleveland apartment for missing rent payments, highlighting a potentially tumultuous and unstable situation.
To support the grieving Wood family, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist with funeral costs and related expenses. The overwhelming response from the community has far surpassed the initial fundraising goal, demonstrating the widespread sympathy and solidarity towards the family during this difficult time.