NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – In a tragic incident that shook the community, a 27-year-old woman from Newport News was found guilty of felony homicide after a 3-year-old girl died from an accidental fentanyl overdose in her home. The convicted woman, Contessa Holloman, had invited the toddler, Ava Hudson, for a playdate with her own daughter at her apartment in northern Newport News.
The heartbreaking events unfolded in the early morning hours of May 31, 2022, when Ava fell unresponsive after ingesting a lethal combination of drugs during her stay at Holloman’s residence. Despite the swift actions taken, including bringing Ava to her mother’s home nearby, the young girl was pronounced dead at a local hospital shortly thereafter.
Investigations following the tragic incident revealed the presence of a deadly mixture of heroin, fentanyl, and tramadol in Holloman’s apartment. The State Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Ava’s death was a result of ingesting these drugs, with fentanyl levels exceeding the fatal range for adults.
During the court proceedings, Holloman testified that she was unaware of Ava ingesting the drugs in her home and only realized something was wrong when she picked the child up to return her to her mother. Despite her claims, Holloman was found guilty of felony homicide, two counts of felony child neglect, and a drug possession charge in a one-day bench trial.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drug exposure, especially to vulnerable children. This incident is one of two on the Peninsula in 2022 where young children lost their lives after ingesting fentanyl left behind by caregivers, highlighting the need for increased awareness and preventive measures.
In the aftermath of Ava’s death, family and friends remember her fondly, describing her as a bright and joyful child who loved learning and exploring the world around her. The impact of her loss reverberates through the community, leaving many questioning how such a tragedy could have occurred.
Despite the testimonies presented in defense of Holloman during the trial, the judge’s ruling signifies the gravity of the situation and the responsibility that comes with caring for young children. As the community awaits sentencing for Holloman, the case serves as a somber reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution in safeguarding the well-being of children in our midst.