Man indicted for murder in the stray-bullet killing of Nashville college student from NJ
A man accused of fatally shooting a Nashville college student from New Jersey last year was indicted this month on a murder charge, the prosecutor’s office confirmed Tuesday.
Shaquille Taylor, 29, is accused of killing Belmont University freshman Jillian Ludwig, who was struck in the head with a stray bullet in a park near campus in November 2023, the Nashville District Attorney’s Office said.
The 18-year-old victim was rushed to the hospital in critical condition on Nov. 7, but later died.
Taylor was indicted on first-degree murder and evidence tampering charges, prosecutors said.
He allegedly fired multiple rounds toward a nearby dark sedan fleeing the area with one of the shots instead hitting Ludwig, according to an affidavit.
The suspect’s girlfriend told Nashville police he admitted to her he was involved in the shooting, per court papers.
Taylor was previously arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in April 2023, but was never prosecuted because he wasn’t found competent to stand trial by three court appointed doctors to the frustration of the district attorney’s office.
He also didn’t meet the burden to be involuntarily committed to a mental health facility and was released from custody.
Doctors said Taylor has an intellectual disability and language impairment, according to court papers.
His release and the subsequent deadly shooting of Ludwig prompted outrage and resulted in Tennessee lawmakers to reexamine state laws.
Legislation is currently moving through the state legislature that would more easily allow authorities to commit a person facing criminal charges, but is not mentally fit to stand trial into a mental health institute.
Another competency hearing in the coming weeks will be held for Taylor over the new charges, a Nashville district attorney spokesperson told The Post.
Prosecutors anticipate a more favorable ruling this time around, the spokesperson said.
Following the shooting, Ludwig’s family remembered her as a “radiant and talented young woman,” who performed bass and guitar, as well as sang, at multiple venues where she grew up in Wall Township in the Garden State.
“Jillian was a radiant and talented young woman full of enthusiasm, compassion, and love,” her obituary stated.
“Her music, service, and positive attitude made the world a better place. In her short 18 years, Jillian made a remarkable impact on countless people and her spirit will continue to bring light to the world.
