URGENT UPDATE: A Santa Rosa grandmother and her daughter have been arrested following a shocking incident where an 11-month-old baby girl was poisoned by fentanyl. Authorities confirmed that the child was exposed to the dangerous substance at around 7 p.m. on Sunday in her grandmother’s apartment on Range Avenue.
The Santa Rosa Police Department reported that the mother, Shaylynne Watson, aged 35 and a resident of Lake County, and her mother, Beverly Hansel, aged 54, failed to seek immediate medical assistance despite the alarming situation. After Watson noticed her baby picking up a small white substance, she alerted Hansel, who administered Narcan to counteract potential overdose symptoms.
However, neither Watson nor Hansel called 911. Instead, they monitored the baby for symptoms before Watson left the apartment with all four of her children, who range in age from 11 months to 9 years. Approximately five hours later, at around midnight, Watson took the baby to a local hospital for evaluation, where medical staff confirmed fentanyl exposure.
Police were called to the hospital at 3:40 a.m. on Monday, leading to a search warrant executed at the grandmother’s apartment later that afternoon. Investigators discovered numerous pieces of narcotics paraphernalia, including methamphetamine and black tar heroin, all found within reach of the children.
The Santa Rosa Police Department stated, “Detectives concluded both Watson and Hansel were responsible for the baby’s fentanyl exposure.” This prompted Child Protective Services to remove all four children from Watson’s custody immediately.
Watson has been charged with one count of felony child endangerment, while Hansel faces charges for child endangerment and drug possession. Fentanyl, an extremely potent synthetic opioid, poses a significant risk, especially to children whose bodies are more vulnerable to even the smallest amounts.
What Happens Next? Both women are currently being held at the Sonoma County Main Adult Detention Facility. The investigation continues as authorities assess the situation and ensure the safety of the children involved.
This incident serves as a grave reminder of the dangers posed by opioids, with police warning that even a minute exposure can be fatal to young children. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or potential hazards.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.