A middle school student in Charlotte County, Florida, is recovering after a life-threatening fentanyl overdose at school, while authorities have charged two caregivers in connection with the incident.
According to deputies, the student brought fentanyl from home and ingested it in the school bathroom before returning to class. Within minutes, she collapsed, prompting immediate intervention from school staff.
A school nurse administered CPR, and deputies used Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, saving the student’s life.
“This could have easily been fatal,” said Charlotte County Sheriff’s officials. “Thanks to the quick actions of our first responders and school staff, this child survived.”
Two adults, Joshua Sanders, 40, and Courtney Delaney, 34, have been arrested and face multiple counts of child neglect, including charges involving great bodily harm. Authorities allege the child found the fentanyl at home and brought it to school, putting her life at serious risk.
Sheriff’s deputies emphasized that leaving dangerous drugs accessible to children is irresponsible and illegal, noting that even a small amount of fentanyl can be fatal.
The student reportedly found a container of fentanyl on a bathroom sink at home. She placed some in her backpack and later put it on her tongue in a school bathroom. After collapsing, first responders acted quickly, reviving her with emergency care.
Officials say the incident highlights the growing dangers of fentanyl exposure among children, and they urged caregivers to safely store or dispose of all prescription and illicit drugs.
The Charlotte County School District issued a statement praising the rapid response of school staff and first responders and confirmed that the student is receiving medical care and support.
“This serves as a reminder of the very real dangers of fentanyl and the importance of keeping our children safe at home and at school,” the statement read.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and urge families to seek help if they encounter opioid exposure in their homes.
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