A Florida five-year-old boy tragically died on Sunday, March 23, after he was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition. An investigation carried out by local authorities revealed that the child's mother, Heather Opsincs, left the boy alone in a hotel room. There, tragically, the boy consumed apple juice that was contaminated with methamphetamine.
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According to a
statement issued by the Riviera Beach Police Department, police received a report of a child not breathing at 2401 Beach Court, Unit #310. Police found paramedics providing medical attention to the child upon their arrival. He was rushed to St. Mary's Hospital in critical condition. Unfortunately, the boy died shortly after.An investigation was carried out by the police. They discovered that the child had consumed a substance that was contaminated with methamphetamine. As reported by PEOPLE, the child got hold of a contaminated, open plastic apple juice bottle and drank it.
While PEOPLE reported, as per a probable cause affidavit, that the boy was in the care of a babysitter at the time, the Riviera Beach Police Department's statement alleged that the boy was left alone in the hotel room.
The affidavit reports that the 5-year-old boy began "shivering and shaking" before he "became stiffed" and his "head tilted down." The document alleged that Opsincs waited about an hour before she called 911 after finding out about her son's condition.
Charged
PEOPLE reported that Heather Opsincs tested positive for methamphetamine, as well as her dead son. Police officers allegedly found six meth pipes and an assortment of drug paraphernalia inside the room. Two plastic apple juice bottles were also found inside.
"The investigation is ongoing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available," the police department statement concludes. "The Riviera Beach Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the child during this difficult time."
Heather Opsincs was charged with negligent manslaughter in connection with her five-year-old's death. She is currently being held at Palm Beach County Jail on a $100,000 bond. The judge agreed to the bond arrangement after prohibiting Opsincs from contacting two witnesses and anyone under the age of 18, as per WPTV. She, however, may contact her daughter over the phone. She must also turn in any firearm she might possess.
