Blaise Taylor Trial Draws National Attention
The murder trial of former college football player and NFL scout Blaise Taylor is underway in Tennessee, nearly three years after the death of his pregnant girlfriend, Jade Benning, and their unborn daughter. Prosecutors allege Taylor deliberately poisoned Benning during a date at her apartment, while the defense insists her death resulted from her own drug use.
Taylor has pleaded not guilty to all charges. If convicted, he could receive a life sentence.
Timeline of Jade Benning’s Death
On February 25, 2023, emergency responders rushed to Benning’s Nashville apartment after Taylor called 911, saying she appeared to be suffering from a severe allergic reaction.
Paramedics found the 24-year-old unconscious and without a pulse. She was transported to a local hospital, where doctors determined she had suffered catastrophic brain damage. Her unborn daughter, who was approximately five months into the pregnancy, died two days later.
Benning remained on life support until March 6, 2023—her 25th birthday—when she passed away.
Medical experts later testified that toxicology testing revealed an extremely high concentration of cocaine combined with alcohol in her system, leading investigators to suspect intentional poisoning.
Prosecutors Allege Drink Was Tampered With
Authorities arrested Taylor in March 2024 following a lengthy investigation. Prosecutors claim he secretly mixed cocaine with an alcoholic beverage because he did not want Benning to continue the pregnancy.
During the trial, jurors heard testimony from Benning’s close friend, who said the victim called shortly before collapsing and allegedly accused Taylor of putting something in her drink. Prosecutors also argued that evidence suggested parts of the apartment had been cleaned before investigators completed their examination.
Taylor, a former Arkansas State football player who later worked with the Tennessee Titans and Utah State University, denies all allegations.
Defense Rejects Murder Allegations
Taylor’s legal team maintains that Benning’s death was caused by her own substance use rather than intentional poisoning. Defense attorneys questioned investigators about how evidence was collected and argued that the crime scene may have been compromised after friends and family entered the apartment before investigators completed their work.
They also emphasized that Taylor was the person who contacted emergency services when Benning became unresponsive.
The trial is continuing, with additional witness testimony and expert evidence expected before the jury reaches a verdict.
