The mother of a one-year-old boy whose tragic death in Fayette County made national headlines was given two life sentences after pleading guilty to first-degree domestic violence and aggravated child abuse of a child under the age of six.
Wendy Bailey, 24, of Winfield, is accused of failing to intervene before her child was murdered.
The remains of Kahleb Collins were found in a burn pile behind his family’s home after his mother, father and sibling were involved in a fatal crash. The father, Steven Collins, and the two-year-old sister, RyLeigh, were killed in the December 2024 crash.
Authorities only learned of Kahleb Collins upon investigating the deaths of his father and sibling. They said the child had not been seen for more than three months and determined Steven Collins had threatened to kill the child and texted photos of him hanging and covered in blood.
Authorities say the burned remains of the toddler were later discovered at the home of Wendy and her father, John Elton Bailey.
According to court documents, Kahleb Collins was restrained with zip ties to a chair, hanged from the ceiling or other elevated structure and beaten. Prosecutors accused Wendy Bailey of failing to intervene.
John Elton Bailey was also charged with aggravated child abuse, four counts of domestic violence, abuse of a corpse, failure to report a missing person and hindering prosecution. He is considered innocent until proven guilty.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content.
