A 10-year-old boy survived a devastating crash that killed his mother and three siblings in Moulton, Alabama, in April. The driver accused of causing the collision, Garrett Cole Nix, 35, turned himself in nearly three months later after a grand jury indicted him on four counts of manslaughter.
Charges and Allegations
Nix faces additional charges, including first-degree assault, drink-driving, speeding, running a red light, and not wearing a seatbelt, according to court documents. He posted bail and was released pending further court hearings, as reported by NeedToKnow. Prosecutors allege that Nix sped through a red traffic light before crashing into the family's car.
The Victims
The crash on 11 April killed Ashley Hagood, 35, her seven-year-old twin daughters Bryleigh and Brynleigh Pledger, and her 13-year-old son Bryant Ballew. Ashley's 10-year-old son sustained severe injuries but has since been discharged from hospital.
In a heartfelt obituary, Ashley was remembered as a devoted mother nicknamed "Wonder Woman" by her loved ones. Her son Bryant was described as a "kind and tender-hearted" teenager who loved the outdoors, fishing, and quad bikes, and was looking forward to buying and modifying his first truck. The twins were recalled as "beautiful little girls" with contagious smiles who shared an unshakeable bond.
Community Reaction
Family and friends paid tribute to Ashley as a dedicated mother who devoted her life to her children. In a social media post before the tragedy, Ashley wrote to her daughters: "No matter how old y'all might be, both of you will always be my little girls."
Legal Defense
Nix's attorney rejected claims that his client was under the influence, calling the crash "a horrible, awful tragedy" but "an accident" that should not lead to manslaughter convictions. Investigators confirmed that Ashley had the right of way when her vehicle was struck at the intersection. The case remains ongoing.
