Seattle Mom Faces Charges in Infant's Fentanyl Death

A Seattle mother, identified as 39-year-old Divina Tangalan (also known as Nakiah Cunningham), has been charged in connection with the death of her one-year-old child from suspected fentanyl consumption. On August 23rd, authorities responded to an apartment where the infant was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead at the scene.

Tangalan reportedly informed officers of her fentanyl addiction and the presence of drugs in the home, acknowledging her potential role in her son's death. She appeared intoxicated during questioning. Charges include reckless endangerment and unlawful possession of a firearm, as a weapon was discovered in the residence, accessible to young children.

Further investigation uncovered a history of child welfare concerns. A safety plan for the children had been implemented earlier in August by the Department of Children, Youth and Families due to the parents testing positive for narcotics. Tangalan also has prior convictions for custodial interference and drug distribution.

Additional charges are pending as the investigation continues. The medical examiner's report confirmed fentanyl in the child's system, with possibilities of SIDS or accidental smothering also noted.