EVERETT, MAY 21: The Everett Police Department announced Tuesday, May 20, that they arrested five individuals in connection with the overdose death of a 13-month-old in South Everett that occurred last year. All suspects have been booked into the Snohomish County Jail.
On April 24, 2024, Everett patrol officers responded to a medical call in the 1400 block of Casino Rd. The initial call reported a 13-month-old not breathing, Everett Police said in a press release.
Upon arrival, responding officers noted a burning odor they associated with fentanyl consumption coming from within the home. Officers also observed multiple small, blue fentanyl pills on the floor in the common area.
Life-saving efforts were attempted by Everett Fire Department personnel, and the child was ultimately transported to the hospital for further evaluation. Tragically, the 13-month-old passed away. The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office later ruled the cause of death was drugs/poisoning.
Detectives with the Major Crimes Unit responded to the scene. A warrant for the address was obtained and served. During warrant service, investigators discovered numerous items used to facilitate the ingestion of narcotics in most rooms of the home.
Investigators conducted interviews with individuals who resided at the home or visited the home. Throughout the investigation, it was determined that the involved parties had knowledge of the use of narcotics in the residence. Investigators also discovered video footage of some occupants of the home using narcotics in the presence of young children.
Since the incident, detectives conducted follow-ups and pursued leads, resulting in the arrest of the five individuals.
“Fentanyl use, even indirectly, poses a serious danger to children. A small amount of fentanyl residue can be lethal to children, as the drug can be more potent to a baby or toddler’s smaller body and lack of opioid tolerance. Pills can look like candy to children, especially when they’re brightly colored,” the press release said.
Washington State offers a range of resources to support service providers, families, and young people in their efforts to combat fentanyl and opioid use, as well as the risk of overdose:
Washington Recovery Help Line – 1-866-789-1511
City of Everett Human Services
Based on a press release from the Everett Police Department.
