In a poignant moment following a court hearing, the father of an Alabama woman charged in connection with a tragic car accident that claimed her 7-year-old son’s life has spoken out in her defense. Delyshia Molette, aged 34, faced the court in Mobile County just over a month after being accused of manslaughter, a charge stemming from a crash on November 4.

The accident, which resulted in the death of her young son and injury to her 11-year-old, has thrust Molette into the spotlight. During her bond hearing, she was confronted with the devastating news of her son’s passing. Her father, Douglas Molette, was present at Tuesday’s hearing to lend his support as more details emerged about the incidents leading up to the crash.

Courtroom reports from local CBS affiliate WKRG provided insight into the events of November 5. Prosecutors allege that Molette attempted to shoplift from a Publix grocery store in Semmes, Alabama. The items in question included a packet of hamburger meat and a couple of dog toys. The confrontation escalated when store employees approached her, at which point she reportedly brandished a weapon.

The situation intensified as police arrived on the scene. Molette allegedly resisted arrest in a violent altercation, with accusations of assaulting an officer by attempting to gouge his eyes and biting his finger. Despite efforts to detain her, she managed to flee on foot. Law enforcement pursued her, yet the search was called off by 9 p.m.

This series of events has not only led to legal challenges for Molette but also an emotional upheaval for her family. As the judicial process continues, her father’s public defense highlights the personal and complex nature of the case. The tragedy of losing a young life remains at its center, casting a shadow over the legal proceedings.

After Delyshia Molette was tracked down at her home, she got into her Infiniti SUV with her two boys inside and planned to drive to Georgia, police said. Her intention was to bring the boys across state lines so authorities in Alabama could not take her children away from her.

Police chased Delyshia Molette in her SUV until they realized that there were children inside. During testimony at November’s court hearing, officers said that she had reached speeds up to 90 mph before she crashed. It was at that court hearing when Delyshia Molette found out that her 7-year-old son was dead. Upon hearing the news, Molette reportedly shouted, “Did you say he died? My 7-year-old died?”

Douglas Molette told WKRG, “When you walk into a store as someone follows you, yes, for some people, anxiety kicks in, and I feel that once again, whether it was intentional or non-intentional, yes, I feel that she went from 1 to 100 based on our previous issues.”

He explained, “My family has a history of anxiety issues. So, when we get frustrated, we [can go] from 1 to 100 real quick. I know that sometimes when things get too much for her, she goes from 1 to 100 as well.” He told WKRG that he did not believe that his daughter’s alleged actions were “intentional,” and called the numerous charges against her “excessive.”

Delyshia Molette is charged with manslaughter, resisting arrest, attempting to elude, robbery, and assault.