Baby's Fatal Fentanyl Overdose In Groveton Prompts Charges For Parents

GROVETON, VA — The fatal fentanyl overdose of an 11-month-old baby in a Groveton residence has led to an indictment against the parents.

Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano announced the indictment by a grand jury in Fairfax County Monday. Juan Oliva-Ruiz, 19, and Shantica Tillery, 23, were each indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter, child cruelty resulting in serious injury, and child abuse and neglect.

Police had responded to the couple's Groveton residence on June 21, 2022 after the mother found her baby wasn't breathing. The prosecutor's office alleges the baby found a fentanyl pill on the floor.

"We know that fentanyl overdoses are on the minds of our community members, and our office is working closely with law enforcement to prevent future tragedies like this one," Descano said in a statement. "The death of an innocent baby in this case Is unspeakably tragic."

The child abuse and neglect are tied to the couple's other child, who was removed from the residence after the incident.

Each parent faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted of all charges. A court date will be set on March 23.

Descano thanked the Fairfax County Police Department for the investigative work that led to the indictment.