In a shocking turn of events, a woman charged with fatally stabbing a 3-year-old boy outside a Giant Eagle supermarket in Ohio was released from custody by a judge just days before the attack, despite being referred for a mental health evaluation. The release comes amidst claims made by the accused, Bionca Ellis, that she had also killed a woman in California, which investigators later determined to be not credible.

According to Fox 8, Judge Brian Hagan of Rocky River released Ellis three days before the tragic incident, stating that there were no apparent signs of mental distress or previous violent acts. However, the report indicates that Ellis had been taken into custody for a probation violation in connection to a 2023 arrest involving petty theft at a Walmart store.

During court proceedings, concerns were raised about Ellis's behavior, with a magistrate questioning if she had fallen asleep. The magistrate concluded that a mental health evaluation was necessary as Ellis seemed to have difficulty understanding the court's requirements. However, the organization responsible for conducting the evaluation claimed to have had nobody available, leading to Ellis's release.

On June 3, Ellis allegedly stabbed toddler Julian Wood, resulting in his death, as well as injuring his mother, Margot. It has also come to light that Ellis had previous run-ins with the law. In February, warrants were issued for her in Kern County, California, on three counts of battery.

Reports reveal that Ellis had voluntarily returned to Ohio from California and had contacted the Cleveland Police, confessing to a murder there. However, the Bakersfield Police Department stated that the information provided did not match any active investigations, and Ellis was not considered a person of interest.

Furthermore, Ellis had admitted to Cleveland Police that she had a desire to "kill someone," leading to her being taken for a mental health evaluation. However, during her time at the hospital, she reportedly became extremely agitated and fought with medical personnel and officers.

Additionally, Ellis was arrested in March near Orlando, Florida, on a trespassing charge for allegedly refusing to leave a hotel. Her mother, Yolanda Eggleton, has offered some insight into her daughter's mental state, suggesting that Ellis was experiencing hallucinations and hearing voices. She expressed her condolences to the family affected by the tragedy and emphasized that no child should ever lose their life in such a manner.

As the investigation into this horrifying incident continues, questions arise about the decision to release Ellis despite legitimate concerns about her mental well-being. The case highlights the importance of ensuring thorough mental health evaluations and appropriate measures for individuals displaying concerning behavior.