BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The remains of a child believed to be missing since September have been found in Fayette County, according to the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities confirmed Thursday afternoon that the body was discovered in a burn pile near the home of Wendy Pamela Bailey, the mother of the missing child.
Though an official autopsy has not yet been performed, investigators suspect the remains belong to 1-year-old Kahleb Collins, who was reported missing on Sept. 9. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance remained unclear until December, when Bailey was involved in a car crash that claimed the lives of her husband, Steven Collins, and their 2-year-old daughter, Ryleigh.
Bailey, who was injured in the crash, is currently facing several serious charges, including aggravated child abuse, domestic violence, and abuse of a corpse. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the exact cause of death and the full details of what led to the child’s tragic disappearance.
Sheriff Byron Yerby expressed the community’s sorrow following the discovery, calling it “a heartbreaking outcome” while emphasizing the importance of protecting children. “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who loved Kahleb,” he said in a statement. “While this discovery brings a measure of closure, it is also a solemn reminder of the responsibility we all share in protecting our children. We are committed to continuing the pursuit of justice in this case.”
The search for answers in this case has been ongoing for months, and the sheriff’s office has vowed to bring justice for the young child. As the investigation moves forward, local residents and law enforcement officials alike are left grappling with the devastating loss and the mystery surrounding the events leading up to Kahleb Collins’ death.
