Ashley Hagood, Bryant Ballew, and Bryleigh Pledger Killed in Highway 157 Crash as Two Children Fight for Their Lives

A devastating crash in Alabama has left a mother and two of her children dead, while two surviving siblings remain in critical condition, fighting for their lives in hospital.

Authorities say Ashley Hagood, 33, of Moulton, was traveling with her four children on Saturday when their SUV was struck on the side by a Ford F-150 at a Highway 157 intersection.

Three Lives Lost in Tragic Collision

Among those killed were Hagood’s 13-year-old son, Bryant Ballew, who died at the scene, and 7-year-old Bryleigh Pledger, one of the twin daughters.

Ashley Hagood was transported to a nearby hospital following the crash but tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.

The crash has left the family and community reeling as details continue to emerge about the severity of the incident.

Two Children in Critical Condition

Two of the children survived the crash but sustained serious injuries. Bentley Pledger, 10, and his twin sister Brynleigh Pledger, 7, were airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, where they remain under intensive medical care.

Bentley has shown early signs of improvement. As of Sunday afternoon, doctors were able to remove him from a ventilator after confirming he could breathe on his own. Medical staff planned to reduce his sedation to allow him to regain consciousness and begin communicating.

Despite that progress, Bentley suffered significant injuries, including two fractures in his back, a severe concussion, and a forehead wound caused by road rash.

Brynleigh Undergoes Surgery as Condition Remains Critical

Brynleigh Pledger remains in critical condition following emergency surgery. Doctors had anticipated complications due to brain swelling and bleeding, which worsened before the procedure.

During surgery, medical teams worked to relieve pressure on her brain. She is now being closely monitored for signs of improvement.

Brynleigh also sustained multiple serious injuries, including a broken left arm and a shattered jaw. She has not yet regained consciousness and reportedly experienced several seizures overnight. Doctors are also monitoring fluctuations in her heart rate.

Community in Shock as Investigation Continues

The tragic crash has deeply impacted the Moulton community, as loved ones and residents rally around the surviving children and grieving family members.

Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the circumstances leading up to the collision. The crash remains under investigation.