California mom pleads not guilty in daughter’s murder
Ashlee Buzzard has entered a not guilty plea to a first-degree murder charge in the death of her 9-year-old daughter, Melody. Investigators say the case involved a cross-country journey marked by alleged efforts to evade detection before Melody’s body was ultimately found in Utah.
This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
An Alabama mother is facing a murder charge after authorities said her 2-year-old daughter was tied by her hands and feet and left face-down on a bed for more than 12 hours, causing the child to suffocate. Police said a second suspect connected to the investigation died by suicide two days later.
Sierra Shay Hadaway, 22, was charged with murder in the death of her daughter, 2-year-old Madilynn Hadaway, who was found dead June 12 in Lanett, Alabama, according to the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators said the toddler had been left face-down on a bed for more than 12 hours with her arms, legs and ankles bound. A second suspect, identified as Christian Myles Sturkie, died June 14 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said.
Officials believe Madilynn died from asphyxiation, though they have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding her death. Authorities have also not clarified Sturkie’s relationship to the child.
Sierra Shay Hadaway is pictured with her 2-year-old daughter, Madilynn Hadaway, in an undated photo. Sierra Hadaway has been charged with murder in the toddler’s death. (Sierra Shay Hadaway/Facebook)
While Madilynn died on June 12, the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office said it did not complete its investigation until this week. Authorities announced Thursday that the findings led to Sierra Hadaway’s arrest.
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On Facebook, a profile for Sierra Hadaway under the name Sierra Hill includes a tribute to her daughter that reads, “Madilynn Grace 09/22/2023-06/12/2026,” followed by the phrase “But GOD.”
Sierra Shay Hadaway, 22, is seen in a booking photo after being charged with murder in the death of her 2-year-old daughter, Madilynn Hadaway. (Chambers County Sheriff’s Office)
An obituary for Madilynn Grace Hadaway described her as a “precious angel.”
“Though her time with us was far too brief, Madilynn filled our lives with immeasurable love, laughter, and happiness. Her bright smile, curious spirit, and joyful heart brought life to everyone who knew her,” the obituary said. “She had a special way of bringing joy to those around her, and her sweet presence made every day brighter. She taught those around her the purest meaning of love.”
Sierra Shay Hadaway and her daughter, Madilynn Hadaway, are seen together in this undated photo. The 2-year-old was found dead in Lanett, Alabama, on June 12. (Sierra Shay Hadaway/Facebook)
“Madilynn enjoyed playing with dolls, getting dirty in the yard, and living wild and free beside her “besties,” the obituary read.
Sierra Hadaway is being held at the Chambers County Detention Facility with no bond.
