A devastating new layer has been added to the tragic discovery in South Point, where a couple was found dead in their home, leaving two autistic sons alone for days. The boys’ biological father has come forward with exclusive details, shedding light on what really happened.
A Controlling Household & Days of Isolation
According to the father, the deceased were the boys’ mother and stepfather. He described the stepfather as controlling and possessive, making it difficult for family and friends to check on the boys. As a result, they were left alone in the home with their parents’ bodies for two days.
The 20-year-old son, who is high-functioning autistic, did not initially realize his mother and stepfather had passed. Believing they were simply sick, he remained in the home, unaware of the severity of the situation. Tragically, he never called 911—his father explains that he doesn’t fully understand death.
How Authorities Discovered the Scene
The grim discovery was only made after the younger son, who is low-functioning autistic, flooded the bathroom. Water seeped into a neighbor’s apartment, and when they couldn’t get a response at the door, they called the fire department. First responders then arrived to find the parents deceased in the living room. Nearby, officers found drug paraphernalia, including a razor blade and white powder, was found, pointing to a likely drug overdose as the cause of death.
Authorities now suspect fentanyl poisoning played a role in their deaths. Investigators believe the couple either took something laced with fentanyl or were using the deadly drug directly. The apartment itself was undisturbed, appearing as if someone had simply left, aside from the tragic scene in the living room.
How Are the Boys Coping?
Despite the harrowing experience, their father assures that the boys are “completely fine and happy.” He retrieved their belongings from the apartment and said his oldest son only reacted briefly to the news of his mother’s death, stating, “Oh well, that’s very sad.” The father emphasized that they are now well cared for.
Ongoing Investigation—Authorities Seek Information
Law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the couple’s deaths. Authorities are looking for individuals who may have been in contact with them in the days leading up to the tragedy. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department at (740) 532-3525.
A Wake-Up Call About Fentanyl’s Deadly Reach
This heartbreaking case is yet another reminder of the dangers of fentanyl, a drug that continues to claim lives at an alarming rate. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, help is available:
📞 National Helpline for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
🌐 Visit SAMHSA.gov for resources and support.
This tragic event serves as a stark warning about the lethal nature of fentanyl and the unintended victims left behind—children, families, and entire communities forever changed.