Tragedy and Justice: The Trial of Blaise Taylor

On February 25, 2023, Blaise Taylor faced questioning from authorities outside Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, over a date that ended in a medical emergency. He was asked what happened to Jade Benning, his 24-year-old date, who had arrived at the hospital unresponsive.

Taylor explained that the evening began with plans for dinner and painting, but soon Benning felt unwell. She was spitting up and shaking when Taylor called his father, then dialed 911 as advised. Emergency responders found Benning unconscious and transported her to the hospital.

In a search for answers, Jade’s best friend Nijaiha Jackson recounted a call she received from Jade, claiming Blaise had put something in her drink. This call lasted over six minutes, ending abruptly as Jade’s voice faded.

Despite Nijaiha’s account shared with police and medical staff, no recorded evidence linked Taylor to any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, Jade’s family rushed to her side at the hospital, where they learned Jade had gone without oxygen for 45 minutes, rendering her brain dead. Tragically, the baby she was carrying, named Ivy, also had no chance of survival due to the lack of oxygen.

Setting the scene for ongoing investigations, Jade’s parents and friends were left searching for reasons behind her sudden state, including accusations involving Blaise and a past discussion about ending the pregnancy.

Soon after Jade’s condition was discovered, Nijaiha and three friends visited Jade’s apartment taking precautions—gloves and video—to gather potential evidence. They found a misplaced camera and vomit on the comforter, which was later handed over to authorities.

Tests confirmed cocaine in Jade’s system, described by medical experts as “extraordinarily high”—seven times what is usually present in fatal overdoses.

On March 14, 2024, after continued inquiries and investigations, Blaise Taylor was arrested for the murder of Jade and her unborn child. Despite multiple legal attempts to prove his innocence, he faced charges in court, claiming he had no reason to harm Jade or the baby, while denying any connection to the drugs found in Jade’s apartment.

In court, the prosecution relied heavily on Nijaiha Jackson’s testimony regarding the phone call from Jade as evidence. Another key witness, Apple Dennie, shared past conversations with Taylor about obtaining abortion pills for another woman he impregnated, aiming to show a pattern of behavior.

Defense highlighted Jade’s previous interactions with a known drug dealer, arguing the need for deeper investigation there rather than focusing solely on Taylor.

After closing arguments, the case went to the jury, with the defense trying to undermine the credibility of Nijaiha’s call, compounded by evidence questions. Shortly, the jury returned with a guilty verdict against Blaise Taylor, resulting in consecutive life sentences.

For Jade’s family, justice was served, yet the absence left by her and Ivy remains profound. They continue to honor Jade through shared memories and tattoos reflecting her fondness for butterflies.