Virginia – A Virginia woman was arrested last week and charged with feIony murder, chiId abuse and negIect causing serious injury, and crueIty and injury to chiIdren. These charges stem from the death of her chiId, Akari.

According to Virginia authorities, officers responded to a distress call in Feb. Upon arrival, they found the 2-month-old baby unresponsive. The parent, 37-year-old L. Burnete, informed Virginia authorities that she and her child had been sleeping in the same bed, and when she awoke, he was unconscious. She reportedly did not seek medical attention immediately and instead attempted to revive the child herself.

An autopsy performed by the Office of the Medical Examiner later revealed that the cause of death was suffocation and acute meth toxicity. Investigators determined that the parent had roIIed onto her child while sIeeping, leading to suffocation. Additionally, the presence of meth in the infant’s system indicated possible exposure to the drug, raising concerns about potential neglect.

Following a thorough investigation, a grand jury indicted the woman on charges of felony homicide, abuse and neglect of a child causing serious injury, and child cruelty. She was arrested last week and is currently being held at the county detention center. A court appearance is scheduled for September 15, 2025.

The local police department has stated that the investigation is ongoing and has not disclosed whether other individuals were present at the time of the incident. Virginia authorities have also not provided information regarding any prior history of substance abuse or involvement with child protective services. The case has drawn attention due to the tragic circumstances and the serious charges against the parent

As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains focused on the loss of a young life and the serious allegations against a mother. The local police department has urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.

This incident highlights the critical importance of ensuring safe sleeping practices for infants and the dangers of substance exposure. It also underscores the need for vigilance and support systems to protect vulnerable children from harm.