BIRMINGHAM, AL – The Birmingham Police Department has announced an arrest in the tragic case of Ketorrius “KJ” Starkes Jr., a 3-year-old child who died after being left inside a vehicle for several hours.
Police have taken 54-year-old Kela Stanford, a Birmingham resident, into custody in connection with the child’s death. Following a thorough investigation, detectives presented evidence to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, which approved a felony charge of Leaving a Child Unattended in a Vehicle.
Details of the Case
The heartbreaking incident unfolded when officers responded to a call involving a child found unresponsive after reportedly being left in a hot car for an extended period. Despite emergency response efforts, young KJ Starkes Jr. was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
The case was assigned to Birmingham’s Homicide Unit, which launched an in-depth investigation into the circumstances leading to the child’s death.
Legal Action Taken
Based on the findings, the Jefferson County District Attorney issued a warrant for Stanford’s arrest under Alabama Code 13A-11-290, a law reinforced by the Amiyah White Act. This law makes it a felony offense to leave a child or incapacitated individual in a motor vehicle when doing so poses a significant risk of harm.
On August 1, 2025, officers with the Crime Reduction Team arrested Stanford in the 1500 block of Pine Tree Drive. She was booked into the Jefferson County Jail, where she remains in custody.
Community Reaction
The loss of Ketorrius “KJ” Starkes Jr. has left the Birmingham community in deep mourning. Loved ones and neighbors have begun organizing vigils and memorials to honor the life of the toddler whose future was cut short.
“This never should’ve happened,” said a family acquaintance. “KJ was a joyful little boy. The pain of losing him this way is unbearable.”
Local advocates and community members are now urging greater public awareness about the dangers of leaving children in vehicles, especially during extreme weather conditions. Many hope this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for change and prevention.
Investigation Continues
The Birmingham Police Department continues to investigate the incident. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Homicide Unit at 205-254-1764. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Remembering KJ
The death of KJ Starkes Jr. is a devastating reminder of how quickly lives can be lost due to preventable circumstances. As the legal process moves forward, the Birmingham community unites in grief, seeking both justice and a commitment to better protect its children.
In memory of KJ, may his story lead to lasting awareness, accountability, and change.
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