DOUGLAS, Ga. (WALB) - What should have been a day filled with cake, candles, and celebration turned into unimaginable heartbreak for one South Georgia family.

According to her family, Hadleigh Lee had just turned 9-years-old on April 21, 2024. Hours later, her life was taken in a crash caused by an impaired driver.

Her family says the driver was traveling 86 mph with a blood alcohol level of .244, more than three times the legal limit, when they struck the vehicle that Hadleigh’s father was driving.

Her family says the loss has been devastating, leaving a lasting impact on both their loved ones and the community.

Organizers say the upcoming “Smile Like Hadleigh Series 2026″ Youth Baseball Tournament is not just about competition, but about honoring Hadleigh’s life and raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving.

According to organizers, the event will bring teams from across the region together while sharing Hadleigh’s story and encouraging safer choices on the road.

They say sixty percent of the proceeds will go to the Smile Like Hadleigh Foundation, a nonprofit created by Hadleigh’s mother, Chari Lee. Her family says the foundation focuses on scholarships, outreach, and support for families impacted by impaired driving.

According to national statistics, impaired driving continues to be a deadly issue across the country. On average, 34 people are killed every day in crashes involving drunk drivers, roughly one death every 42 minutes. Alcohol-impaired driving accounts for about 30 percent of all traffic fatalities in the United States.

For Hadleigh’s family, those numbers are more than statistics.

They are a painful reality.

Her parents say that through events like this tournament, they hope no other family has to experience the same kind of loss.

According to organizers, the tournament is set for April 18 in Douglas and will feature teams ranging from 8U to 12U divisions.

A special moment is planned at 8 a.m., when Hadleigh’s parents will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Community members are also encouraged to wear pink in her honor and to stand in support of families affected by impaired driving.

Organizers say the goal is simple.

Remember Hadleigh. Raise awareness. Save lives.

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