An Alabama woman has been charged with murder after investigators alleged that her 2-year-old daughter died from asphyxiation after being restrained and left face down on a bed for more than 12 hours.
The Chambers County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 22-year-old Sierra Hadaway of Chambers County in connection with the death of her daughter, Madilynn Hadaway, whose death occurred in June. Authorities say the investigation uncovered evidence indicating the toddler had been bound before her death.
Emergency Call Led Deputies to the Home
According to investigators, deputies and Lanett EMS responded to Hadaway’s residence in the Cusseta area of Chambers County at approximately 9 a.m. on June 12 after receiving a report that a child was not breathing.
Deputies immediately began performing lifesaving measures while waiting for paramedics to arrive. Madilynn was then transported to a nearby hospital, where doctors pronounced her dead.
Following the child’s death, investigators launched an extensive criminal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Investigators Say Child Was Restrained for Hours
As detectives gathered evidence, they determined the toddler had allegedly been restrained for an extended period before her death.
According to the sheriff’s office, investigators learned that the child’s arms, legs, and ankles had been bound, and she had been placed face down on a bed for more than 12 hours.
Authorities believe the prolonged restraint caused the child to die from asphyxiation.
In announcing the arrest, the sheriff’s office stated that investigators concluded the child’s positioning and restraints were consistent with the cause of death.
Mother Arrested on Murder Charge
Based on the findings of the investigation, authorities arrested Sierra Hadaway and charged her with murder.
She is currently being held at the Chambers County Detention Facility without bond while prosecutors continue preparing the case.
Officials have not released additional details about the evidence supporting the charge or when she is expected to appear in court.
Second Individual Died During Investigation
Authorities also confirmed that Christian Myles Sturkie died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on June 14, two days after Madilynn’s death.
Investigators have not disclosed Sturkie’s relationship to Hadaway or the child, nor have they stated whether he played any role in the toddler’s death.
The sheriff’s office has only said that the investigation into the case remains active.
Multiple Agencies Continue Investigating
The investigation is being conducted jointly by:
- Chambers County Sheriff’s Office
- 5th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office
- Alabama Department of Forensic Science
Officials said they continue to examine all evidence surrounding the case and have not ruled out additional developments.
Family Remembers Madilynn
Madilynn’s obituary remembered the toddler as a cheerful child who loved playing with dolls, exploring outdoors, and enjoying life.
Her family described her as having a bright smile, a curious personality, and a joyful spirit that brought happiness to everyone around her.
The obituary said that although her life was tragically short, she filled the lives of those who knew her with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Authorities have not released additional information regarding the circumstances that allegedly led to Madilynn Hadaway’s death. Sierra Hadaway remains in custody without bond on the murder charge as investigators continue working with prosecutors and forensic experts to complete the investigation.
