In the chilling episode of Dateline, we delve into the heart-wrenching story of Shelia Eddy, her parents, Greg Eddy and Tara Clendenen, and the tragic events surrounding the murder of Skylar Neese. On July 6, 2012, Shelia Eddy, along with her best friend Rachel Shoaf, lured Skylar Neese into the woods of Pennsylvania under the pretense of smoking marijuana. However, their intentions were far darker, leading to the horrific murder of Skylar. This episode sheds light on the complex dynamics within Shelia Eddy’s family, her parents’ attempts to cover up the crime, and the legal battles that ensued. As we explore the aftermath of this heinous act, we are confronted with questions about parental responsibility, the nature of friendship, and the consequences of teenage cruelty[1].
Key Takeaway
- Shelia Eddy, born in September 1995, is the only child of her parents, Tara Clendenen and Greg Eddy.
- Shelia Eddy’s parents divorced in 2000, Shelia lived with her mother who remarried and moved to Morgantown, West Virginia
- On July 6, 2012, Shelia Eddy and her best friend Rachel Shoaf lured Skylar Neese into the woods of Pennsylvania, where they murdered her.
- Shelia’s mother filed a motion stating that she should not be held responsible for the events of July 2012.
The story begins with the background of the three girls, Shelia Eddy, Rachel Shoaf, and Skylar Neese, who were once inseparable friends. However, as they grew older, tensions arose, leading to a drift in their friendship. Shelia and Rachel, driven by fear and jealousy, decided to end their friendship with Skylar, who was unaware of their intentions. On the night of July 5, 2012, Shelia and Rachel, armed with kitchen knives, lured Skylar to a remote location where they brutally murdered her. Skylar’s body was not discovered until January 2013, more than six months after her disappearance.
The aftermath of the murder was devastating for all involved. Skylar’s parents, David and Mary Neese, filed a lawsuit against Shelia, Rachel, and their parents, Tara Clendenen and Greg Eddy, alleging negligence and murder. The lawsuit sought compensatory and punitive damages, damages for the concealment of Skylar’s body, and damages for negligent supervision/entrustment by the parents. Tara Clendenen, Shelia’s mother, filed a motion for judgment in her favor, arguing that she was not at fault in the murder. She claimed that she did not have “duty of control” over her daughter and that the injuries to Skylar were not caused by the vehicle used in the crime. Clendenen also argued that the last parental negligent act was the failure of Skylar Neese’s parents to supervise her.
The case highlighted the complexities of parental responsibility and the tragic consequences of teenage cruelty. It also brought to light the role of social media in the investigation, as the girls were active on Facebook and Twitter, providing investigators with insights into their mental states and the unfolding tragedy. The episode concludes with a reflection on the impact of the crime on the Neese family and the broader community. It underscores the profound loss suffered by the Neese family and the lasting impact of the crime on the lives of the perpetrators and their families. The story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of parental supervision and the devastating consequences of teenage cruelty.
Shelia Eddy, born in September 1995, was the only child of her parents, Tara Clendenen and Greg Eddy. After her parents’ divorce in 2000, Shelia lived with her mother, Tara, who remarried and moved to Morgantown, West Virginia. Shelia attended University High School in Morgantown, a significant distance from her biological father, Greg Eddy, who she did not live with 2.
The episode highlights the complexities of parental responsibility and the legal battles that ensued following the murder. Tara Clendenen, Shelia’s mother, filed a motion for judgment in her favor, arguing that she was not at fault in the murder. She claimed that she did not have “duty of control” over her daughter and that the injuries to Skylar were not caused by the vehicle used in the crime. Clendenen also argued that the last parental negligent act was the failure of Skylar Neese’s parents to supervise her 24.
The legal proceedings were further complicated by the involvement of insurance providers. In a civil suit surrounding the case, insurance providers named in Mary Neese’s suit did not have to provide a defense. This decision was significant in the legal landscape of the case, highlighting the complexities of civil litigation and the role of insurance companies in such cases 14.
The episode also explores the personal lives of Shelia Eddy and her parents, shedding light on the dynamics of their family relationships. Despite the tragic events, Tara and Greg Eddy remained committed to supporting their daughter, Shelia, who was put behind bars for life. The episode raises questions about the influence of parental guidance and support on Shelia’s actions and the broader implications of parental responsibility in the wake of such tragedies.
Where Is Shelia Eddy Now?
Shelia Eddy is currently serving her sentence for first-degree murder with mercy, which means she will be eligible for parole after 15 years. She was charged as an adult and sentenced to life in prison following her guilty plea to the crime.
Additionally, Shelia Eddy and Rachel Shoaf are not friends. Despite being incarcerated in the same correctional facility, they are not allowed to have contact with each other due to the nature of their crimes. There is no available information confirming whether they maintain any form of relationship or friendship.
Shelia Eddy Mother vs Lawsuit
In the aftermath of the tragic murder of Skylar Neese, Shelia Eddy’s mother, Tara Clendenen, took a stand against the lawsuit filed by Skylar’s parents, David and Mary Neese. Clendenen filed a motion arguing that she should not be held responsible for the events that transpired on July 6, 2012.
She contended that she did not have control over her daughter, Shelia, as Shelia was staying at the Shoaf’s house on the night in question. Additionally, Clendenen claimed that she did not entrust her car, which was involved in the incident, to her daughter. She further argued that Skylar’s injuries were not caused by the car and that there was no proof Shelia couldn’t drive it.
Clendenen also pointed out that on social media, Mary Neese had stated she did not blame Eddy’s parents for her actions, suggesting that Clendenen should not be held responsible. She also argued that Skylar’s parents should have supervised her better.
This legal defense by Tara Clendenen highlights the complexities of parental responsibility and the legal battles that ensue following such tragic events. It underscores the importance of parental supervision and the potential legal implications when such supervision is perceived to be lacking. The case serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of such events on the lives of those involved and the broader community.
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