In Douglas County, Georgia, a 35-year-old woman is facing charges of felony murder in connection with the death of her three-year-old daughter.
According to authorities, Uriha Ridge allegedly ventured into the woods near Foxhall Resort with her two children, three-year-old Alina and seven-year-old Elijah, in the early hours of January 16, 2024. At the time, Ridge was reportedly under the influence of cocaine and marijuana, and the temperature was below freezing.
A distress call from Ridge to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office led to the discovery of the family. Assisted by resort staff, authorities found the children soaking wet and scantily clad, having weathered the rain and freezing cold overnight.
Ridge claimed to have gotten lost in the woods. However, investigators discovered that she had a fully charged and operational cell phone with her at the time of the rescue.
Alina later died at a local hospital due to prolonged exposure to the elements. The condition of Elijah, who was treated for similar exposure-related issues, has not been disclosed.
Court documents reveal Ridge’s previous history of child cruelty charges. In 2022, she allegedly assaulted Alina, who was only two years old at the time. Ridge reportedly dropped the toddler while heavily intoxicated.
Despite these charges, Ridge was granted bond and retained custody of her children. Following Alina’s death, authorities have requested the revocation of Ridge’s bond.
Ridge now faces two counts of first-degree child cruelty, two counts of second-degree child cruelty, and one count of felony murder.
She is currently detained in the Douglas County Jail without bond, awaiting her initial court appearance.
In the meantime, Elijah is being cared for by other members of the family.
