In the early morning hours of Wednesday, February 14, 2024, a burst of violence at the Relax Inn on US Highway 301 in Claxton, Georgia, cut short the life of 27-year-old Shalonde A’Jessica Stevens of Statesboro. The Claxton Police Department and Evans County Sheriff's Office responded to 911 calls around 7:00 a.m. regarding a shooting. Upon their arrival, law enforcement discovered a chaotic scene with four individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Shalonde A’Jessica Stevens and another woman, 26-year-old Taylor Samone Clark, also from Statesboro, were pronounced dead at the hotel. The two other victims who were injured in the incident have not been publicly identified. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation was called in to lead the inquiry into the double homicide. The bodies of Stevens and Clark were transported to the GBI Crime Lab for autopsies to be performed.
A few days later, on Saturday, a suspect in the fatal shooting turned herself in to the Evans County Sheriff's Office. Celeste Denise Adams, a 23-year-old from Waynesboro, was arrested in connection with the shooting. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has charged Adams with two counts of murder, two counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Known affectionately as 'Suga,' Shalonde was remembered for her vivacious spirit and infectious wit that could illuminate any room she entered. Born in Statesboro, she was a member of the Statesboro High School class of 2015 and had a passion for dancing, which she often shared at family gatherings. Her laughter and warmth left a lasting impression on those who knew her. Funeral services were held at Miller Grove Baptist Church with interment at the Magnolia Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.
