Alabama Woman Charged in Hot Car Death of 3-Year-Old Birmingham Toddler

Kela Stanford, a 54-year-old Alabama Department of Human Resources contract worker, has been charged with a Class B felony for leaving 3-year-old Ke'Torrius Starkes Jr. unattended in a hot car, resulting in his death in Birmingham. Starkes, who was in DHR custody and being transported for a supervised visit, was left inside the vehicle with windows rolled up for approximately five hours before being found unresponsive and pronounced dead. The case, deemed a completely avoidable tragedy by Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr, highlights concerns about child safety during summer months when cars can reach deadly temperatures. Stanford was booked and released on bond, facing potential prison time if convicted. The Alabama Department of Human Resources has terminated the contract worker involved, and the community has planned a vigil to honor Starkes. Authorities continue to investigate but have limited public comments due to the pending nature of the case.