13-02-2025
Portland mother charged for toddler's death after fentanyl overdose in 2023
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A Portland mother was formally charged on Feb. 12 for the death of her 1-year-old son who died of fentanyl of a fentanyl overdose on June 21, 2023
The defendant, 32-year-old Kelsey Haws, pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to all charges, including one count of first-degree manslaughter, assault and three counts of three counts of criminal mistreatment.
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According to an affidavit signed by Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Charles Mickley on Jan. 21, Haws told investigators that she is an active fentanyl user and that her 22-month-old son may have come into contact with a 'tooter' straw used to inhale fentanyl the day before he was hospitalized.
'On June 19, 2023, paramedics responded to a 911 call regarding a 1-year-old child who was gravely injured as the result of a fentanyl overdose,' the affidavit reads. 'The paramedics found the victim to be unresponsive and they attempted to revive him with Narcan, but to little effect.'
The toddler was given CPR, two doses of Narcan, and was rushed to Randall Children's Hospital. Despite the lifesaving efforts, he died two days later.
'The victim was pronounced dead on June 21, 2023, after two 'brain death' examinations showed a cessation of functioning of the brain and brainstem,' the affidavit reads. 'Dr. Millius later performed the autopsy of the victim. The cause of death was listed as: 'acute fentanyl intoxication.' Dr. Millius also noted that the victim had severe active chronic pneumonia, which was 'very likely a contributing condition.''
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On June 20, 2023, Haws' two surviving children, ages 3 and 7, were taken to the Randall Children's Hospital for drug testing. Both of the victim's older siblings tested positive for fentanyl and methamphetamines.
Haws is scheduled for a hearing on Feb. 13 to determine if she will be held in custody before her trial.
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