California mom pleads not guilty in daughter’s murder
Ashlee Buzzard stands accused of the heinous crime of murdering her nine-year-old daughter, Melody. Prosecutors highlight a desperate, border-hopping journey meant to evade capture, tragically ending when Melody’s remains were found in Utah.
This report addresses topics around suicide. If you or someone you find yourself worried about is having suicidal thoughts, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
In a chilling case unfolding in Alabama, a mother faces murder charges after police discovered her toddler bound like a captive and left prone on a bed for over 12 hours – a torment that ultimately suffocated the child. Adding another grim twist, a second suspect linked to this tragedy chose to end his own life just two days on.
With the charge of murder looming over her, 22-year-old Sierra Shay Hadaway comes face-to-face with the law following an appalling incident involving her two-year-old daughter, Madilynn Hadaway. On June 12, authorities in Lanett, Alabama, responded to a heart-wrenching scene: little Madilynn, lifeless after long hours bound on a bed with no chance of survival, as confirmed by the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office. On June 14, Christian Myles Sturkie, another suspect in this tragic tale, succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
While the officials underline asphyxiation as the cause of Madilynn’s death, they remain tight-lipped regarding further details. Sturkie’s ties to the deceased child continue to be a mystery as investigators dig deeper.
Sierra Shay Hadaway poses with her 2-year-old daughter, Madilynn Hadaway, in this undated photo. Sierra Hadaway has been charged with murder in the toddler’s death. (Sierra Shay Hadaway/Facebook)
Although the toddler died June 12, it wasn’t until this week that the sheriff’s office concluded its investigation, resulting in the arrest of her mother, Sierra Hadaway, authorities announced Thursday.
Sierra Hadaway’s Facebook profile, under the name Sierra Hill, includes a memorial to her daughter, reading “Madilynn Grace 09/22/2023-06/12/2026,” along with the phrase “But GOD.”
Sierra Shay Hadaway, 22, is seen in a booking photo after being charged with murder in the death of her 2-year-old daughter, Madilynn Hadaway. (Chambers County Sheriff’s Office)
An obituary for Madilynn Grace Hadaway described her as a “precious angel.”
“Though her time with us was far too brief, Madilynn filled our lives with immeasurable love, laughter, and happiness. Her bright smile, curious spirit, and joyful heart brought life to everyone who knew her,” the obituary said. “She had a special way of bringing joy to those around her, and her sweet presence made every day brighter. She taught those around her the purest meaning of love.”
Sierra Shay Hadaway and her daughter, Madilynn Hadaway, are seen together in this undated photo. The 2-year-old was found dead in Lanett, Alabama, on June 12. (Sierra Shay Hadaway/Facebook)
“Madilynn enjoyed playing with dolls, getting dirty in the yard, and living wild and free beside her “besties,” the obituary read.
Sierra Hadaway is being held at the Chambers County Detention Facility with no bond.