Red Bay, AL – A devastating incident at a small day care center in Red Bay, Alabama, has led to serious legal actions against the owner, Angelene Chamblee. The case centers around the death of 4-month-old Autumn Wells, who tragically died during a nap at the Tiny Tigers day care in 2022 after being left face down on a Boppy pillow.
The incident has stirred concerns about child care safety and legal accountability in early childhood centers, with charges expanding as new evidence has come to light.
Details of the Tragic Incident and Initial Legal Actions
On March 9, 2022, Autumn Wells was placed face down on a Boppy pillow by Tiny Tigers employee Payton Gann, who then left the baby unattended for an extended period. Upon Gann’s return, Autumn was unresponsive and later pronounced dead at the hospital. Medical examiners confirmed that Autumn had been deceased for at least two hours before being found.
Four employees faced legal consequences: Payton Gann was found guilty of manslaughter, while others accepted plea deals. Initially, Chamblee faced six counts of child care act violations and two counts of forgery, but these were not prosecuted at the time.
Emerging Evidence Fuels New Charges Against Day Care Owner
In a significant development reported by CBS affiliate WHNT, the Franklin County District Attorney revealed new evidence supporting additional charges. Chamblee now faces 27 felony counts including one count of manslaughter, 18 counts of possession of a forged instrument, two counts of forgery, and six counts of operating a day care center without a license.
- Chamblee was arrested and released on bond on the same day.
- The expanded charges come after extensive witness interviews and evidence review during preparations for Payton Gann’s trial.
- Other employees linked to the case received plea agreements in exchange for testimony and cooperation.
“The new evidence highlights the day care owner’s alleged involvement in this heartbreaking case,” the district attorney stated.
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Community Concerns and Legal Implications
The tiny community of Red Bay, located near the Alabama-Mississippi border, mourns the loss of a child so young and raises urgent questions about day care safety and regulatory enforcement.
The case underscores the heavy responsibility of child care providers and the devastating consequences when protocols are not followed. Experts emphasize the importance of strict supervision and licensure compliance in day care operations to protect vulnerable infants.
Looking Ahead: Justice and Accountability
As the legal process unfolds, the community awaits further court proceedings with keen attention. This case not only seeks justice for Autumn Wells but also serves as a sobering reminder of the critical need for oversight and proper care in child care facilities.
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