A 21-year-old pregnant woman's aspirations for a better life ended tragically when she was shot and killed by a police officer in a grocery store car park, with a jury later clearing the officer of criminal charges.
Dreams Cut Short
Ta'Kiya Young had ambitious plans for her expanding family. Seven months pregnant, the Ohio resident delighted in caring for her two sons, aged eight and five, and was excitedly anticipating the arrival of her daughter.
She had already purchased baby clothes, arranged a photography session, and proudly displayed her growing bump. Young had taken practical steps toward building a stable future, applying for social housing while pursuing her ambition to qualify as a social worker.
Tragically, neither Young nor her unborn daughter would live to see these dreams realised. Both were laid to rest together following the fatal incident in August 2023.
The Fatal Encounter
The confrontation occurred outside a supermarket where Young was suspected of shoplifting. Officer Connor Grubb shot the expectant mother, resulting in the deaths of both Young and her foetus.
On Friday 21st November 2025, a jury found Grubb not guilty of criminal misconduct. The verdict prompted emotional outbursts in the courtroom, with Young's grandmother crying out that the decision was unjust.
Family members remembered Young as a devoted mother who treated her boys like royalty, dressing them smartly, preparing their favourite meals including steaks, and occasionally indulging them with sweets. A relative described her as intelligent and beautiful both inside and out.
Seeking Accountability
Mourners honoured Young's vibrant personality at her funeral by wearing different shades of her preferred colour, bright pink. The service took place just one year after Young's own mother had passed away.
The family's legal representatives have committed to continuing their civil case against Blendon Township and its police chief, determined to secure accountability for Young's death despite the criminal court outcome.
In a powerful statement, the lawyers emphasised that Young's sons deserve to know their mother's life had significance. They called for financial stability for the children and a world where pregnant Black women aren't fatally shot by police over allegations of shoplifting.
The legal team stressed the importance of a justice system that delivers accountability even when criminal juries cannot reach a conviction.
