An Atlanta mother is facing murder charges after allegedly fatally stabbing her 11-year-old daughter before attempting to take her own life. Shannen Grimes, 42, is accused of murder, felony murder, cruelty to children, tampering with evidence, and possession of a weapon during a felony in connection to her daughter Genesis’ death on November 14 in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
Sandy Springs Police Sgt. Leon Millholland expressed sympathy for the family, community, and police officers involved in the tragic incident. Emergency services responded to a welfare check at Grimes’ residence after receiving a report from her sister about a suicide attempt. They found Grimes injured on a sofa with cuts on her wrists and later discovered Genesis’ body positioned in a recliner with multiple stab wounds.
Evidence of the crime was found throughout the residence, including bloodstains in Grimes’ bedroom and bathroom, bloodied clothes in a wardrobe, and knives with blood-like stains in the kitchen. Grimes, still bleeding, confessed to the stabbing while being transported to the hospital. She also sent chilling texts to her sister admitting to the crime.
An investigation revealed that Grimes had expressed concerns about the safety of herself and her daughter due to perceived threats from others. Grimes, upon being questioned by local officers, claimed she believed that by taking her own life, both she and Genesis would wake up from what she thought was a bad dream.
Authorities confirmed that Grimes was the only person present during the incident, with no signs of a break-in at the property. Grimes was subsequently taken into custody at Fulton County Jail, and her case will be presented to a grand jury for further legal proceedings.