Charlotte, North Carolina – A 26-year-old mother is facing serious felony charges after her 1-year-old daughter was found unresponsive at a West Charlotte motel and later died, according to police.
Authorities say the child’s death may be linked to exposure to illegal drugs, prompting an ongoing investigation by law enforcement.
Incident Overview
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police confirmed that Brionce Parks, 26, has been charged with felony child abuse and exposing a child to a controlled substance following the death of her 1-year-old daughter, Kamelah Michilena.
Parks is currently being held under a $1 million bond, police said.
The incident unfolded in the early morning hours at a motel in west Charlotte, raising concerns about child safety, substance exposure, and supervision.
Timeline of Events
Officers were dispatched to the Studios & Suites 4 Less motel in West Charlotte at approximately 1:20 a.m. Friday after receiving a report of a child who was not breathing.
When first responders arrived at the scene, they found Kamelah Michilena, age 1, unresponsive. Emergency medical care was provided, and the child was transported to a nearby hospital.
Despite lifesaving efforts, the toddler later died at the hospital, authorities confirmed.
Details From Police
According to investigators, Parks is accused of exposing her daughter to cocaine and fentanyl, substances police say allegedly contributed to the child’s death.
Law enforcement officials stated that evidence gathered during the investigation led to the charges filed against the mother. However, police emphasized that the case remains active and that additional findings may emerge as the investigation continues.
At this time, authorities have not released details regarding how the substances were accessed or the length of exposure.
Key Facts in the Case
- Victim: Kamelah Michilena, 1 year old
- Suspect: Brionce Parks, 26
- Location: Studios & Suites 4 Less motel, West Charlotte
- Time of response: Around 1:20 a.m. Friday
- Charges: Felony child abuse, exposing a child to a controlled substance
- Bond: $1 million
- Substances involved: Cocaine and fentanyl
Investigation Status
Police confirmed that the investigation into the child’s death is ongoing. Detectives are continuing to review medical findings, scene evidence, and other relevant information to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Officials have not ruled out additional charges pending the outcome of toxicology reports and further investigation.
No other individuals have been charged in connection with the case as of now.
Broader Safety Concerns
This case highlights the extreme danger controlled substances pose to young children. Drugs such as fentanyl, which is significantly more potent than heroin, can be fatal in extremely small amounts, particularly to infants and toddlers.
Law enforcement and medical experts consistently warn that children can be exposed through accidental ingestion, contact with contaminated surfaces, or secondhand exposure in enclosed environments.
Authorities stress that caregivers are legally responsible for ensuring children are not exposed to hazardous substances under any circumstances.
Community Impact
The death of a young child under these circumstances has deeply affected the local community. Child welfare advocates note that motel living situations can sometimes present additional risks, especially when combined with substance abuse and lack of stable supervision.
Police encourage anyone who suspects child endangerment or unsafe living conditions to report concerns immediately to authorities or child protective services.
Conclusion
A Charlotte mother now faces felony charges following the tragic death of her 1-year-old daughter after the child was found not breathing at a West Charlotte motel. Police allege the child was exposed to cocaine and fentanyl, contributing to her death. As investigators continue their work, authorities say the case remains active and additional developments may follow.
If you have information related to this incident or concerns about child safety in your community, authorities urge you to contact local law enforcement.
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