Authorities in Alabama are now searching for a 1-year-old boy, Kahleb Rowan Collins, whose disappearance only came to light after a tragic car crash claimed the lives of his father and younger sister.
Kahleb was last seen on September 4 in Winfield, Alabama, but his absence went unnoticed until December 8, when his father, Steven Bradley Collins, 40, and 2-year-old sister RyLeigh Collins were killed in a fatal crash near Glen Allen, about 70 miles northwest of Birmingham.
The car crash occurred when Steven, who was reportedly driving in rainy conditions at twice the speed limit, lost control of the vehicle.
None of the passengers were wearing seatbelts, and one was ejected from the car.
Authorities initially didn’t realize Kahleb was missing until after the crash, which led to further investigation into the family’s situation.
It was discovered that Kahleb had been missing for months.
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A neighbor revealed that Steven and his wife, Wendy Jean Bailey, had claimed Kahleb was ill and had been sent to live with a relative.
Steven had even posted on Facebook in early November about his son’s serious health issues, revealing that Kahleb was struggling with severe growth problems, including back issues and organ complications that required surgery.
Kahleb’s grandfather, John Elton Bailey, was arrested on December 11 and charged with failing to report the child’s disappearance.
Authorities believe that Kahleb may have suffered serious harm or even death, and that he was possibly removed from the home and taken to an unknown location.
Wendy remains hospitalized in critical condition, and the search for little Kahleb continues as authorities urge the public to come forward with any information.
Meanwhile, the family remembers 2-year-old RyLeigh, described as a “loving and happy baby” who loved fishing and watching Paw Patrol.