Alabama Toddler Presumed Dead Following Fatal Crash; Mother Faces Multiple Charges
An Alabama toddler, missing after a December 8 car crash that killed his father and sister, is now presumed dead, according to authorities. Wendy “Pam” Bailey, 22, the child’s mother, has been charged in connection with the tragic deaths of both children.
Bailey faces charges of abuse of a corpse (a Class C felony), aggravated child abuse (a Class A felony), first-degree domestic violence (a Class A felony), and criminally negligent homicide (a Class A misdemeanor), announced 24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin on Monday.
The criminally negligent homicide charge pertains to the death of Bailey’s 2-year-old daughter, Ryleigh Collins, who died in the crash alongside her father, 40-year-old Steven Bradley “Brad” Collins. The crash also involved Bailey and her 1-year-old son, Kahleb Collins, who has been missing since the incident.
Crash Investigation Uncovers Heartbreaking Details
The fatal crash occurred on Fayette County 73 near Morris Cemetery Road, roughly two miles south of Glen Allen. Authorities say Brad Collins was driving at 92 mph on a road with a 45-mph speed limit when the vehicle crashed.
The investigation revealed that Ryleigh was unrestrained at the time of the collision. Her death, along with Brad’s, prompted further inquiries into the fate of Kahleb, whose body has not yet been recovered.
After a three-week investigation, authorities determined that Kahleb had been dead for several months before the crash. Despite this conclusion, law enforcement continues to search for his remains.
Mother Faces Serious Charges
Bailey, critically injured in the crash, was charged after her release from UAB Hospital. She has been booked into the Fayette County Jail, with prosecutors seeking to hold her without bond under Aniah’s Law.
“These charges stem from the tragic and untimely deaths of two innocent children,’’ said District Attorney Hamlin. “This investigation has been particularly challenging, but I commend the unwavering dedication and collaboration of the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, the State Bureau of Investigation, and the Alabama State Troopers.”
Community Reeling from Tragedy
The charges against Bailey have sparked widespread sorrow and shock in the community. As authorities continue their search for Kahleb’s remains, the incident underscores the devastating consequences of unsafe driving and child neglect.
This investigation highlights the tragic loss of young lives and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to ensure accountability and justice for the victims.
