Semmes, AL — A heartbreaking traffic incident in Semmes, Alabama has left the community shaken, as a mother now faces multiple charges after a high-speed car crash killed her 7-year-old son and injured her 11-year-old.
Delyshia Molette, 34, appeared in Mobile County court on Tuesday for a hearing related to the November 4 crash, which led to her arrest and subsequent manslaughter charge.
During the hearing, additional details of the events leading up to the crash were revealed, shedding light on the tragic sequence that ended in the death of her young child.
Alleged Incidents Leading Up to the Crash
According to courtroom, prosecutors allege that on November 5, Molette attempted to shoplift from a Publix grocery store in Semmes, taking items including a package of hamburger meat and dog toys. When confronted by store employees, she allegedly threatened them with a weapon.
Police responded to the store, where Molette allegedly assaulted an officer, reportedly attempting to gouge his eyes and biting his finger during the altercation. Molette allegedly escaped on foot, prompting a police search that was temporarily called off around 9 p.m.
Fatal Pursuit Across State Lines
Authorities later located Molette at her home, where she allegedly entered her Infiniti SUV with her two sons inside and attempted to flee to Georgia, intending to cross state lines to prevent Alabama authorities from taking custody of her children.
During the high-speed pursuit, officers reported that Molette reached speeds up to 90 mph before crashing. It was during a bond hearing in November that she was informed of her 7-year-old son’s death, at which point she reportedly exclaimed, “Did you say he died? My 7-year-old died?” Her 11-year-old son survived the crash with injuries.
Father Speaks in Defense of Daughter
Douglas Molette, Delyshia’s father, attended the hearing to support his daughter and spoke to WKRG about her actions. He explained that his family has a history of anxiety issues and suggested that his daughter’s alleged actions were not intentional.
“When you walk into a store as someone follows you, yes, for some people, anxiety kicks in, and I feel that once again, whether it was intentional or non-intentional, yes, I feel that she went from 1 to 100 based on our previous issues,” Douglas Molette said.
He added that he believes the charges against his daughter are “excessive” and emphasized that she did not act intentionally to harm her children.
Charges Filed Against Delyshia Molette
Delyshia Molette faces multiple criminal charges stemming from both the high-speed crash and prior incidents leading up to it:
- Manslaughter
- Resisting arrest
- Attempting to elude law enforcement
- Robbery
- Assault
Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including the alleged theft and assault at Publix.
Community Impact
The incident has prompted significant concern in the Semmes community, highlighting issues related to road safety, parental responsibility, and mental health. Residents have expressed both sympathy for the loss of the 7-year-old child and concern regarding the circumstances of the crash.
What Are Your Thoughts?
Do you believe mental health and anxiety should be considered in cases like this, or do you think the charges are justified? Share your opinions in the comments — your perspective helps the community discuss these complex situations.
