Amaziah Taylor and Monique Edwards: Suspects Charged in the Killing of Kaylee Shackelford
Amaziah Taylor and Monique Edwards have been charged in the brutal killing of 20-year-old Kaylee Shackelford in Rome, Georgia. Details reveal a violent attack, body concealment, a police chase, and complicated relationship ties as the investigation intensifies.
In a chilling homicide that has captured statewide attention, Mystique Malachi Amaziah Taylor, 23, of Atlanta, and Rolanda Monique Edwards, 25, of Rome, have been charged in connection with the brutal death of 20-year-old Kaylee B. Shackelford of Powell, Tennessee. Taylor faces felony murder, while Edwards is accused of concealing the body, marking a disturbing case rooted in personal relationships and violent betrayal.
Victim Identified: A Tragic End for Kaylee Shackelford
Authorities confirmed that Shackelford suffered multiple stab wounds and blunt-force injuries, revealing the extreme violence she endured. Investigators suggest the killing may be intertwined with complex personal relationships involving Taylor and Edwards.
The Discovery: Body Found Wrapped in Blankets
Just after noon on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, a pest control worker and property management staff discovered Shackelford’s body wrapped in blankets near Hull Avenue and Cedar Avenue in Rome, Georgia, close to the John Graham Homes complex. The victim was not a resident of the area, and the condition of the scene immediately triggered a homicide investigation.
Witnesses reported seeing a red passenger vehicle in the area shortly before the discovery—a critical detail that set the investigation into motion.
Police Pursuit and Arrests
Later that day, deputies in Bartow County spotted a vehicle matching the witness descriptions. A pursuit ensued, ending with officers surrounding the suspect vehicle in a moment captured on video by a bystander.
Taylor and Edwards were arrested without incident and later booked into the Floyd County Jail.
Relationships and Motive
Preliminary findings suggest Shackelford had been romantically involved with Taylor, who had also begun an online relationship with Edwards. While investigators have not released a specific motive, these overlapping connections point toward a potentially volatile interpersonal conflict.
Graphic Details Revealed in Court
During a December 10 bond hearing, prosecutors revealed that Taylor allegedly:
- Stabbed Shackelford in the neck, chest, and face
- Struck her in the head with a baseball bat
- Transported and concealed the body with Edwards’ assistance
These details underscore the brutality of the crime and the deliberate attempt to hide the victim.
Bond Decisions and Legal Proceedings
- Taylor: Denied bond due to the severity of the charges
- Edwards: Granted a $5,000 bond, reflecting lesser involvement but still tied to concealing the death
Police say additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.
Charge Summary
| Suspect | Age | Residence | Key Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mystique Malachi Amaziah Taylor | 23 | Atlanta, GA | Malice murder, felony murder (2), aggravated assault, aggravated battery, concealing a death, theft by receiving stolen property, fleeing police, reckless driving, speeding, traffic violations, criminal damage, simple batter |
| Rolanda Monique Edwards | 25 | Rome, GA | Concealing the death of another (party to a crime), hindering apprehension, theft by receiving stolen property (party to a crime) |
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The brutality of the case has reignited public conversations about domestic violence, online relationship risks, and the vulnerability of young adults navigating personal connections across states. Authorities say the homicide appears isolated, with no ongoing danger to the public.
Shackelford’s family has been notified, and officials in Georgia and Tennessee continue coordinating as the case moves forward.