Cleveland Couple Charged After Son’s Fatal Fentanyl Overdose
CLEVELAND, Ohio – In a tragic incident highlighting the dangers of illicit drug use, a couple from LaGrange, Christopher Reed, 36, and Erin Gallagher, 34, face serious charges following the overdose death of Reed’s 11-year-old son, Liam. Authorities report the couple was using fentanyl on March 29 and left the narcotic unsecured on a coffee table before going to sleep. Liam, who was sleeping on a nearby couch, was found unresponsive by Reed and Gallagher when they awoke.
The Lorain County Coroner, Frank Miller, confirmed that Liam died from acute intoxication due to fentanyl and morphine, both detected in his system. Miller clarified that while there are widespread misconceptions about fentanyl exposure, death occurs only with ingestion of the substance, not mere contact.
The couple, who have denied the charges, were indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter and endangering children after Miller classified the boy’s death as a homicide in late June. Following the indictment obtained in late October, Reed and Gallagher were granted bail but are awaiting their next court appearance scheduled for January 6, where pretrial discussions will take place.
This case serves as a somber reminder of the significant risks associated with opioid use and the heartbreaking consequences that can ensue, particularly for vulnerable individuals like children. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant about the opioid crisis affecting many families across the nation.
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