Toddlers Died in Freezing Home; Meth Found

Authorities announced charges of third-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter against two adults in Westmoreland County in connection with the death of a 15-month-old child found unresponsive last year. State police responded to a call in February 2025 and found the child in critical condition, who later died at the hospital.

An investigation revealed the home was in deplorable conditions, lacking running water, heat, electricity, and any edible food, with interior temperatures at 28 degrees Fahrenheit and the environment filled with waste. The autopsy confirmed the child died from acute methamphetamine toxicity significantly before the 911 call was made.

Both charged adults tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine. Another child present in the home ingested fentanyl and was placed in emergency custody. The two adults were arrested and are being held on $1 million bail, facing additional charges of endangering the welfare of children.