The tragic accident involving 7-year-old twin sisters Bryleigh Grace Pledger and Brynleigh Nell Pledger on April 11, 2026, shocked the Moulton, Alabama, community and brought widespread attention to a heartbreaking family loss.
The sisters were traveling with their family when a serious two-vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of Highway 157 and Highway 24. The crash also involved their mother, Ashley Hagood, and their brothers, creating an unimaginable situation for the Pledger family.
The Alabama Crash
According to reports, the family was traveling in a Chevrolet Suburban SUV driven by 33-year-old Ashley Hagood when the collision occurred.
A Ford F-150 pickup truck driven by 28-year-old Garrett Cole Nix reportedly entered the intersection after running a red light and struck the family’s SUV. Authorities later alleged that speed and other factors played a role in the devastating impact.
The crash immediately drew attention from local residents and emergency responders because of the number of family members affected.
The Pledger Family
The accident involved several members of the Pledger family, including twin sisters Bryleigh and Brynleigh, their mother Ashley Hagood, and their brothers.
Bryleigh and Brynleigh were known by family and friends as joyful twins who shared a close bond. Their family described them as loving children whose presence brought happiness to those around them.
The tragedy left their relatives, friends, and the wider community searching for ways to support the family during an extremely difficult period.
Bryleigh’s Final Moments
Following the collision, Bryleigh Grace Pledger and her 13-year-old brother, Bryant Ballew, were pronounced unresponsive at the scene.
Their mother, Ashley Hagood, was transported for medical treatment but later succumbed to her injuries.
The loss of three members of the family in such a short period deeply affected the local community, where many people gathered to offer prayers, support, and assistance.
Brynleigh’s Medical Battle
Brynleigh Nell Pledger initially survived the crash and was transported by air to UAB Hospital in critical condition.
Doctors treated her for severe brain swelling and other serious injuries. Her family remained hopeful while medical teams worked to provide care.
After several days, physicians determined that her injuries were irreversible. Her family made the difficult decision to remove life support, and Brynleigh passed away on April 15, 2026.
In an act of generosity, her family chose organ donation, allowing her legacy to continue by helping others.
Bentley’s Recovery
The youngest surviving sibling, 10-year-old Bentley Pledger, survived the collision with serious injuries.
He suffered multiple fractures and bruising and received treatment at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham.
Bentley was later released from the hospital and continued his recovery with support from family members and the community.
His recovery became a source of hope during an otherwise painful chapter for the Pledger family.
Community Remembers
The Moulton area came together following the accident to support the family.
Friends, neighbors, and community members shared messages of sympathy and organized efforts to help the surviving family members.
The twins were laid to rest together on April 18, 2026, at Hartselle Memory Gardens in Hartselle, Alabama. The service brought together loved ones who gathered to remember the sisters and honor their lives.
Legal Action Against Driver
The investigation into the crash continued after the incident.
In June 2026, a grand jury indicted Garrett Cole Nix. Prosecutors alleged that he was not wearing a seatbelt, ran a red light, and was under the influence at the time of the collision.
Nix faces multiple charges, including manslaughter and assault-related counts. His first court appearance was scheduled for late August 2026.
The criminal case is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash and determine legal responsibility.
Civil Lawsuit Filed
The twins’ father, Tyler Pledger, also pursued legal action following the tragedy.
He filed a wrongful death and personal injury lawsuit against Garrett Cole Nix and his employer, Ken Nix & Associates. The lawsuit seeks accountability and damages connected to the loss suffered by the family.
The civil case represents another legal effort to address the impact of the accident and the responsibilities involved.
Accident Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 11, 2026 | Collision occurred at Highway 157 and Highway 24 in Moulton, Alabama |
| April 11, 2026 | Bryleigh Pledger and Bryant Ballew were pronounced unresponsive at the scene |
| April 11, 2026 | Ashley Hagood was hospitalized after the crash |
| April 15, 2026 | Brynleigh Pledger passed away after doctors determined her injuries were irreversible |
| April 18, 2026 | Bryleigh and Brynleigh were laid to rest together |
| June 2026 | Grand jury indicted Garrett Cole Nix |
| August 2026 | First court appearance scheduled |
A Family’s Continuing Journey
The story of Bryleigh and Brynleigh Pledger remains a painful reminder of how quickly a single road incident can change a family forever.
As legal proceedings continue, the Pledger family continues to receive support from those who knew and loved the twins. Their memory remains connected to the kindness shown by their community and the generosity demonstrated through Brynleigh’s organ donation.
The ongoing investigation and court proceedings will determine the next steps in the search for accountability, while family and friends continue honoring the sisters’ lives and the impact they had on everyone around them.
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