Boston Mother Accused of Misleading First Responders as 4-Year-Old Daughter Died From Fentanyl Poisoning

A 35-year-old Boston mother is facing multiple criminal charges after prosecutors alleged she gave emergency responders a misleading explanation when her 4-year-old daughter became unresponsive from fentanyl exposure.

Dayanna Familia was arraigned in Dorchester on October 26 in connection with the death of her daughter, Liyanna Bautista Familia. The child was taken to a hospital after emergency crews were called to the family’s home in the 200 block of Fuller Street shortly before 9 p.m. on August 17. Despite efforts to save her, Liyanna died the following day. Authorities said an autopsy determined that her death was caused by acute fentanyl intoxication.

During court proceedings, prosecutors alleged that Familia told emergency medical personnel her daughter had been drinking milk when she turned blue. She reportedly suggested the child might also have gotten into a roach trap. Investigators, however, believe the girl had been exposed to fentanyl, and prosecutors alleged that Familia failed to disclose the suspected drug exposure while responders were trying to determine what was wrong.

Prosecutors further claimed that police body-camera footage showed Familia attempting to conceal and destroy a white powder believed to be fentanyl. Authorities also said fentanyl was discovered inside the residence during a subsequent search. Prosecutors argued that the alleged false explanation delayed critical efforts to provide the child with appropriate lifesaving treatment.

Familia was arrested by Boston police on October 24, according to local reports. She faces charges including manslaughter, drug possession, destruction or withholding of evidence, child endangerment and misleading investigators. The specific charges reported by different outlets vary, and the allegations have not been proven in court.

At her arraignment, Familia pleaded not guilty. Her attorney reportedly requested bail of $10,000, arguing that the higher amount would place a significant financial burden on her family. The judge ordered her held on $250,000 bail, according to NBC Boston and the New York Post. She is scheduled to return to court on November 20.

The case remains ongoing, and Familia is presumed innocent unless and until she is proven guilty. Prosecutors’ allegations, including the claims about what she told first responders and what appeared on body-camera footage, will be addressed through the legal process.

Sources: New York Post