Alabama mom charged with murder after toddler bound, left to suffocate for 12 hours: cops

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An Alabama mother has been charged with murder after her 2-year-old daughter was bound hand and foot and left face-down on a bed for more than 12 hours until she suffocated, police said. A second suspect in the case fatally shot himself two days later.

Sierra Shay Hadaway, 22, was charged with murder after her 2-year-old girl, Madilynn Hadaway, was found dead in Lanett, Alabama, on June 12 after being found face-down on a bed for more than 12 hours with her arms, legs and ankles being bound, according to the Chambers County Sheriff's Office. A second suspect, Christian Myles Sturkie, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on June 14.

Officials believe Madilynn Hadaway died of asphyxiation, but didn't release additional information. Sturkie's relationship to the girl remains unclear.

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Although the toddler died June 12, it wasn't until this week that the sheriff's office concluded its investigation, resulting in the arrest of her mother, Sierra Hadaway, authorities announced Thursday.

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Sierra Hadaway's Facebook profile, under the name Sierra Hill, includes a memorial to her daughter, reading "Madilynn Grace 09/22/2023-06/12/2026," along with the phrase "But GOD."

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An obituary for Madilynn Grace Hadaway described her as a "precious angel."

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"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."

"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.