Moulton, Alabama — An Alabama man has been indicted after a devastating crash that claimed the lives of a mother and three of her children, with investigators alleging he drove through a red light before striking the family’s SUV at a busy intersection.
The collision, which occurred in April, has left an entire community mourning while criminal and civil proceedings move forward against the driver accused of causing the crash.
Authorities say one child survived the collision, while the victims’ loved ones continue seeking justice.
Driver Faces Multiple Criminal Charges
According to the Moulton Police Department, 35-year-old Garrett Cole Nix has been charged with:
- Four counts of manslaughter
- First-degree assault
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding
- Running a red light
Investigators allege Nix was driving a Ford F-150 when the fatal crash occurred shortly after 10:30 a.m. on April 11 at the intersection of State Roads 157 and 24 in Moulton, about 45 miles southwest of Huntsville.
Police say the pickup truck collided with an SUV driven by 33-year-old Ashley Dawn Hagood, who was traveling with her four children.
The crash claimed the lives of Hagood, 13-year-old Bryant Christopher Ballew, and 7-year-old twins Bryleigh Grace Pledger and Brynleigh Nell Pledger.
A 10-year-old boy, Bentley Pledger, survived.
Investigation Focused on Traffic Signal
Following the collision, investigators initially examined whether a malfunctioning traffic signal may have contributed to the crash. However, authorities later concluded that the traffic light was operating properly.
According to Lt. Casey Baker, evidence showed the traffic signal facing Nix had been red for a significant period before his pickup entered the intersection.
Investigators also determined that several vehicles had already lawfully passed through the intersection before Hagood’s SUV proceeded on a green light.
Speaking after the indictment, Police Chief Craig Knight reflected on the tragedy.
“On April the 11th, 2026, we witnessed one of the most tragic and horrific events imaginable. Four lives were taken needlessly, and family members’ lives were changed forever.”
Defense Challenges Criminal Allegations
A Lawrence County grand jury returned the indictment last week. Nix later surrendered to authorities before posting bond. His attorney, James Sturdivant, disputes allegations that his client was impaired at the time of the crash.
“There is no evidence in this case of impairment. None. Period. End of story.”
The defense also argues that investigators have not conclusively established that Nix ran the red light and maintains the collision should not result in criminal manslaughter charges.
“No one disputes that this is a horrible, awful tragedy. However, it is an accident,” Sturdivant said.
Nix is scheduled to return to court on Aug. 25.
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Family Remembers Mother and Children
As the legal case continues, loved ones are remembering the four victims whose lives were cut short. Ashley Hagood’s obituary described her as a devoted mother who always placed her children first.
“Ashley worked tirelessly to provide for her children, always finding a way to make things happen for them no matter the circumstance.”
Bryant was remembered as an energetic teenager who loved sports, motocross, hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. Meanwhile, Brynleigh’s family chose to honor her memory through organ donation after she passed away several days following the crash.
Her stepmother, Miranda Pledger, shared the family’s hope that the donation could help others during unimaginable loss.
“We can’t change the life it has taken from us, but hopefully donating her gifts, can keep this unimaginable nightmare from happening to someone else.”
The victims’ family has also filed a wrongful death lawsuit as they continue grieving one of the deadliest traffic tragedies to impact the community in recent years.
What are your thoughts on intersection safety and red-light enforcement? Do you believe stronger traffic enforcement could help prevent tragedies like this? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
