Community in Shock Over Hidden Bunkers in Bibb County
Residents of Alabama are reeling from the shocking discovery of concealed bunkers in Bibb County. In light of these events, many are turning to their faith and coming together for prayer vigils to support the victims affected.
The abuse reportedly started in 2022, but the horrifying details emerged on February 4, 2025, following a report of alleged child abuse to the Alabama Department of Personnel Affairs.
When investigators from the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office arrived at a home on Aaron Drive in Brent, they uncovered an underground storm shelter disguised as a carport. This location was the site of repeated sexual assaults. By July 25, authorities had arrested seven individuals connected to the case.
“It looks ordinary from the outside, like a place to park your car, but it’s actually a storm cellar where these terrible acts took place,” Sheriff Jody Wade explained. “It was intended for safety, but has become a place of horror.”
Inside the bunker, authorities found dirty mattresses, chairs, and various pieces of furniture. Reports indicate that children aged 3 to 15 were allegedly restrained with drugs, beds, or poles and subjected to multiple assaults.
The arrested suspects include William Chase McKelloy, Dalton Terrell, Andres Trejo Verazquez, Timothy St. John, Rebecca Brewer, Ricky Terrell, and Sarah Terrell. The charges they face range from rape to human trafficking. Some of the suspects are related, while others are suspected of having paid to exploit the victims.
“No child deserves this,” Wade remarked. “The sheer power and control involved, coupled with the loss of innocence for these kids, is heartbreaking.”
A Community United in Prayer
In response to these distressing revelations, residents from Centreville and Brent gathered to offer support, pray for the victims, and seek vigilance in their community.
One notable prayer service took place at the Centreville First Presbyterian Church, where community members demonstrated strong unity. Lynn Ellinghausen, a local resident and grandmother, expressed her disbelief, saying, “I just can’t wrap my head around it. It’s unfathomable how someone could do such a thing.”
Mayor Mike Oakley also addressed the gathering, highlighting the trauma inflicted on the victims. “This type of abuse stole away the joy of childhood,” he said, adding how critical it is to speak out if abuse is suspected.
“I understand the fear of speaking up, but when it’s a child involved, it’s crucial to say something,” Oakley stated. “This is a matter of child abuse.”
Continuing Call for Justice
The following Saturday, another prayer vigil was held at the Masonic Lodge Uptown, close to the Bibb County Courthouse. This event welcomed the public and fostered a sense of faith, healing, and unity among attendees.
“It’s a shocking reality that such things can happen right in our own community,” Oakley noted. “Evil is present everywhere, and that’s why we’re coming together to pray.”
He urged residents to remain vigilant and stand united against such crimes. “We need your thoughts and prayers. There are far more good people than bad, and we must fill this area with positivity and support,” he added.
Organizers made it clear that these vigils were not just for the victims, but for the entire community starting to heal from this unimaginable tragedy. “We’re here for all those affected by this horrifying example,” Oakley concluded.
