The mother of a 1-year-old Alabama boy, who went missing after his parents were in a car crash, has been charged in connection with his disappearance and the tragic death of his 2-year-old sister.
On the morning of December 8th, tragedy struck when a 2020 Toyota Tacoma, driven by Steven Collins, veered off the road and collided with a tree. Sadly, Steven and his 2-year-old daughter, Ryleigh, lost their lives in the accident.
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office reported that Wendy Pamela Bailey, the child’s mother, was also involved in the crash and sustained critical injuries. She was rushed to the hospital for immediate medical attention. WBRC has provided updates on this devastating incident.
According to the sheriff’s office, they were informed the next day that the couple had another child, a 1-year-old named Kahleb Rowan Collins. Unfortunately, Kahleb was not with his family during the time of the accident and had not been seen since September 4th.
Authorities have concluded, after an investigation, that Kahleb had passed away several months ago.
“Authorities have stated that although they are still actively gathering information and searching for his remains, his body has not been recovered.”
According to the district attorney’s office, Bailey, who is 22 years old, is facing charges of aggravated child abuse, first-degree domestic violence, abuse of a corpse, and criminally negligent homicide.
According to the district attorney’s office, the charge of criminally negligent homicide is connected to the tragic death of Ryleigh. The office states that Ryleigh was unrestrained in the vehicle driven by Collins during the fatal crash.
Bailey awaits a bond hearing in the Fayette County Jail after being booked. The state of Alabama plans to request the denial of bond in this case, citing Aniah’s Law.
“This investigation presented a unique set of challenges due to the heartbreaking loss of two young children,” expressed 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin.
He further commended the collaborative efforts and remarkable cooperation demonstrated by every agency involved, namely the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama Bureau of Investigation, and the Alabama State Troopers.
With the charges now filed, the District Attorney eagerly anticipates taking the case to court and seeking justice for the two innocent children.”
Kahleb’s uncle, Dwayne Collins, expressed his hopes that the family will finally get some answers regarding the boy’s disappearance in response to the charges.
The district attorney’s office has stated that there may be additional charges in the future. The investigation into the case is still ongoing.
