Due to postpartum depression, Ashley’s mother experienced a severe mental health crisis.

The case of 28-year-old Melissa Wright in Alabama, who was convicted after nearly taking the life of her 14-month-old daughter by placing her inside an oven, shocked many people.

According to reports, in June, Melissa’s husband, Robert Lynn Smith, came home to the kitchen and heard a baby crying. Robert rushed in and was devastated to find his 14-month-old daughter, Ashley, crying inside the oven.

“There is ample evidence that Melissa removed the oven rack, turned the oven on high, waited for the oven to heat up, and then placed her child inside,” her lawyer stated. Melissa initially told police that “the baby climbed into the oven by herself and the oven door suddenly slammed shut.” Later, she changed her statement to “a voice urging me to put the baby in the oven.”

During the investigation, police discovered that Melissa had been taking antidepressant medication for an extended period. Friends and neighbors told reporters that the incident happened when the young mother, Melissa, then only 26 years old, developed serious postpartum depression and her mental health rapidly declined.

Melissa’s husband, Robert Smith, tearfully recounted: “Before she developed postpartum depression, she was a wonderful mother. But her mental state changed dramatically. Several times I even saw her outside quietly talking about the end of the world.”

Melissa was later sentenced to 25 years in prison after being convicted of attempted murder. Little Ashley Smith was hospitalized with severe burns covering more than 30% of her body. For the past 14 years, she has been raised by her aunt and uncle while undergoing more than 30 complex surgeries during her recovery. However, the emotional impact and painful memories have stayed with her.

Recently, while appearing in court during her mother’s parole hearing, Ashley surprised many with her confident and graceful appearance. Ashley said she no longer held resentment toward her mother, but she could not live with her.

After reviewing photos documenting the extent of Ashley’s injuries from the incident, the Alabama State Parole Board decided to deny Melissa’s request for parole.

Source: News.com.au