A man accused of fatally shooting a Nashville, New Jersey, college student last year was charged with murder this month, prosecutors confirmed Tuesday.
Shaquille Taylor, 29, is accused of killing Belmont University freshman Jillian Ludwig, who was struck in the head by a stray bullet in a park near campus in November 2023, according to the Nashville District Attorney’s Office. .
The 18-year-old victim was rushed to hospital in critical condition on November 7, but later died.
Prosecutors said Taylor was charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence.
He allegedly fired multiple shots at a nearby black sedan fleeing the area, one of which struck Ludwig, according to the affidavit.
The suspect’s girlfriend told Nashville police that she admitted to being involved in the shooting, according to court documents.
Taylor was previously arrested in April 2023 on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, but the charges were dropped after three court-appointed doctors determined he was incompetent to stand trial, much to the displeasure of the district attorney.
He also could not bear the burden of being forced into a mental health facility and was released from custody.
Doctors said Taylor had an intellectual disability and a speech impediment, according to court documents.
His release and the subsequent shooting of Ludwig sparked outrage and prompted Tennessee lawmakers to reconsider state law.
law Currently on the move Through the state Legislature, it could be made easier for authorities to commit people who have been charged with a crime but are not mentally fit to stand trial in a mental health facility.
A spokesperson for the Nashville district attorney told the Post that another privileges hearing will be held for Taylor in the coming weeks regarding the new charges.
Prosecutors are hoping for a more favorable verdict this time, a spokeswoman said.
After the shooting, Ludwig’s family remembered her as a “brilliant, talented young woman” who played bass, guitar and sang at multiple venues growing up in Wall Township, the Garden State.
“Gillian was a brilliant, talented young woman full of enthusiasm, compassion and love,” her obituary said.
“Her music, service, and positive attitude made the world a better place. In just 18 years, Gillian made a remarkable impact on countless people, and her spirit continues to impact the world.” It will continue to bring light.
