Officer Indicted for Murder in Fatal Shooting of Pregnant Woman

Source: Nia Noelle / Nia Noelle

A Franklin County grand jury has indicted Officer Connor Grubb for fatally shooting 21-year-old Ta’Kiya Young in August 2023. Grubb faces charges of murder, felonious assault, and involuntary manslaughter for the deaths of Young and her unborn child. Authorities issued a warrant for his arrest Tuesday, August 13th.

The incident unfolded when Young was caught on camera stealing liquor bottles from a store. Grubb and another officer, already at the scene, were alerted by a store employee. As Young tried to drive away, Grubb fired through her windshield, striking her as he fell onto the hood. The car rolled forward and crashed into the store.

Body camera footage shows the officers’ attempts to save Young after the shooting.

She and her unborn child died at the hospital.

Blendon Township police classified the officers as “victims” under Marsy’s Law, initially withholding their names. However, Young’s family eventually identified Grubb through their attorney. Protests followed, with Young’s family calling the indictment a “solemn victory.”

Chief John Belford stated that the department will review Grubb’s actions since the indictment prevents him from carrying a firearm. The Fraternal Order of Police defended Grubb, saying he fired because Young tried to run him over.

Special prosecutor Mat Heck led the investigation, which concluded in December with the decision to convene a grand jury.