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Dentist Accused in Toddler's Sedation Death
16 Jul
Summary
- A dentist is accused of administering a fatal dose of sedatives.
- The victim was a 4-year-old girl during a routine procedure.
- Meperidine toxicity was ruled the cause of death by the examiner.
A Fort Worth dentist, Dr. Chrishelle Hemphill, has been arrested and faces criminal charges in connection with the death of a 4-year-old girl. The incident occurred on April 1 during what was described as a routine tongue-tie procedure at Hemphill's clinic, Cuddle Kids Dental Care.
Investigators allege that Hemphill administered multiple sedatives, including an oral solution of Meperidine (Demerol), to Aithana Arriaga. According to the arrest warrant, the medication was given to Aithana twice, and the amount found in her system was considered high even for an adult. The child went into distress and later became unresponsive.
Another dentist present at the clinic attempted CPR until paramedics arrived. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner has ruled Aithana's death as Meperidine toxicity. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal sedation is continuing, with further updates expected.
