In the quiet community of Hueytown, Alabama, a heartbreaking incident unfolded that led to the death of a young child. Two-year-old Kyler Small, a male toddler, died on January 11, 2022, from what authorities believe was an accidental, self-inflicted gunshot wound. The tragic event took place inside his home in the suburban Birmingham area, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting a thorough investigation by law enforcement.
Emergency services were dispatched to the
residence following a report that a child had shot himself. Upon their arrival, first responders found young Kyler suffering from a critical gunshot wound. They immediately began life-saving measures and transported him to Children's of Alabama hospital. Despite their efforts, Kyler succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. The initial investigation by the Hueytown Police Department suggested that the shooting was a tragic accident, but further examination was required to officially determine the manner of death. Details regarding the ownership of the handgun and how the child came into possession of it were central to the ensuing police inquiry.
In the days following the devastating incident, the investigation led to legal consequences for the child's mother. Krishana Danyell Small, who was 23 years old at the time, was charged with manslaughter in connection with her son's death. After a review of the case by the District Attorney's Office, it was determined that there was sufficient probable cause to bring charges against her. Subsequently, she was expected to turn herself in to law enforcement.
Ultimately, Krishana Small faced the judicial system for her role in the tragic death of her son. In December 2024, she was sentenced in a Jefferson County court. The outcome of the legal proceedings was a 12-month suspended sentence, coupled with two years of probation. As conditions of her plea agreement, she was also mandated to complete a gun safety course and attend grief counseling, bringing a close to the legal chapter of a deeply sorrowful event.
