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Written by: A. Smith
Published March 18, 2025 @ 9:13 AM ET
TOOMBS COUNTY, Ga.– Authorities in Toombs County are investigating the death of a 4-year-old girl, identified by family as Reese Hughes, after she was found unresponsive Friday night. Two Lyons residents, Seth Hunter Brown, 26, and Taylor Marie Hughes, 29, have been arrested and charged in connection with her death.
The Toombs County Sheriff’s Office said deputies received a call at approximately 7:46 p.m. Friday about an unresponsive child. The caller, later identified as Taylor Hughes, reported she was en route to the hospital from their home. Emergency responders from Toombs-Montgomery EMS intercepted the vehicle at an Enmarket convenience store in Lyons, where paramedics immediately began life-saving measures while transporting the child to Memorial Health Meadows Hospital in Vidalia. Reese Hughes was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Toombs County Sheriff Jordan Kight contacted the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) for assistance. A joint investigation led to the arrests of Brown and Hughes, who were charged with felony murder, malice murder, cruelty to children in the first degree, and aggravated battery. Both suspects were booked into the Toombs County Detention Center. Authorities later confirmed Brown is the boyfriend of Taylor Hughes, and Reese Hughes was her daughter.
During a first appearance hearing before Superior Court Judge Robert Reeves on March 17, both suspects were formally read their charges. No bond was set at the time, but it may be requested once attorneys are assigned.
Sheriff Kight expressed condolences to the family, stating, “I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the families during this difficult time. I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers in the days to come.”
District Attorney Tripp Fitzner also addressed the tragedy in a social media post, describing it as “heart-wrenching.” He urged the community to trust the investigative process and extended support to those affected. “I know a lot of folks are hurting, but please trust the process. Give it a chance. And keep the families of all those involved in your prayers,” Fitzner wrote.
Community members have rallied to support the family. Liberty Baptist Church in Lyons released a statement from the Hughes family, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. The church will host a prayer vigil at 7 p.m. Tuesday in its parking lot, and attendees are encouraged to wear pink, Reese’s favorite color. Residents have also been hanging pink bows throughout the community as a tribute.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Reese Hughes’ death. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Toombs County Sheriff’s Office at (912) 526-9292.