Burlington, Vermont – Law enforcement agencies across Vermont are actively searching for a mother accused of leaving her three-month-old daughter unattended in a bathtub while she was under the influence of drugs, leading to the infant’s death. Authorities say the suspect is aware of the charges against her but has refused to surrender.
Incident Overview
According to investigators, Briana Arnold, 34, is wanted on multiple felony charges, including involuntary manslaughter, cruelty to a child with death resulting, and possession of narcotics. Arrest warrants were approved late last year following a weeks-long investigation into the drowning death of her infant daughter.
The case is being led by the Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations, a multi-agency task force that handles crimes involving children throughout Vermont.
What Happened on October 4
Police say the incident occurred around 1 p.m. on October 4, 2024, inside an apartment on Main Street in Burlington. That afternoon, emergency dispatchers received a 911 call reporting a drowning infant, according to the Burlington Police Department.
When officers arrived at the apartment, they found Arnold attempting CPR on her three-month-old daughter, later identified as Sapphira Tanita Perez Sanchez. Paramedics immediately took over lifesaving efforts and transported the infant to a nearby hospital. Despite medical intervention, the child later died.
Investigation and Evidence
Following the child’s death, the case was transferred to CUSI for further investigation. Detectives executed a search warrant at the apartment, where they reportedly discovered an open container of fentanyl inside a stove in the kitchen, according to reporting by the Vermont Daily Chronicle.
Investigators also obtained a blood sample from Arnold. A toxicology analysis allegedly revealed the presence of multiple substances, including:
- Benzoylecgonine (a cocaine metabolite)
- Fentanyl
- Norfentanyl
- Methadone
Authorities say these findings played a critical role in building the case.
Medical Examiner’s Findings
An autopsy conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that the infant’s cause of death was drowning. Investigators concluded that the child was left alone in a bathtub while it was filling with water, allegedly while Arnold was under the influence of narcotics.
Based on the evidence gathered, police say the circumstances directly contributed to the infant’s death.
Charges and Arrest Warrants
On October 27, 2024, a court formally approved arrest warrants for Arnold. Law enforcement officials say she has since made contact with authorities, confirming she is aware of the warrants issued in her name.
Despite that contact, investigators claim Arnold has refused to meet with police or turn herself in, prompting a broader search effort.
Ongoing Manhunt and Public Appeal
CUSI officials are now asking for the public’s help in locating Arnold. Authorities urge anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact CUSI directly or their local police department. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and officials stress that even small details could help bring the case to a resolution.
Community and Child Safety Context
The case has drawn renewed attention to the dangers of substance abuse around children, particularly infants who are unable to protect themselves. Law enforcement officials emphasize that leaving a child unattended in a bathtub, even briefly, can be fatal, and the risk is significantly heightened when caregivers are impaired.
Conclusion
As the search for Briana Arnold continues, Vermont authorities say their priority remains accountability and justice for the infant victim. Investigators hope community cooperation will lead to Arnold’s arrest so the case can proceed through the court system.
If you have information relevant to this case or concerns about child safety in your community, contact local law enforcement. Share your experiences or thoughts in the comments below.
