Two arrested in connection with July 2024 overdose death

Two Arrested in Connection With July 2024 Overdose Death

The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of two individuals in connection with a fentanyl overdose death that occurred in July 2024.

According to a release from the Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded in July 2024 to a residence on RM Ward Road after receiving a report of a possible deceased individual. Upon arrival, deputies observed signs consistent with a suspected fentanyl overdose and requested on-call investigators to respond to the scene.

Several months later, the Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the cause of death as fentanyl toxicity.

Following the confirmation, investigators conducted an extensive investigation that included executing multiple search warrants and subpoenas for cellular phone records and social media accounts. Authorities reported that the investigation uncovered text message communications between the victim and two suspects, identified as Trevon Chancey and Mason Gibson, indicating their involvement in supplying fentanyl to the victim.

Based on the findings, arrest warrants were issued for Chancey and Gibson on charges of Conspiracy to Sell Fentanyl Resulting in Death and Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device. Investigators stated that after being taken into custody, both individuals provided statements that corroborated the text message evidence and detailed their roles in providing fentanyl to the victim.

The Sheriff’s Office noted that the investigation remains ongoing and that additional arrests are possible. Officials also stated that charges could be upgraded pending further review and consultation with the State Attorney’s Office.

“These cases take time due to waiting on the Medical Examiner’s report and the information we must obtain from social media accounts and cell phone providers,” Sheriff John Tate said. “However, in the end, the necessary evidence was collected to make an arrest and hold those involved accountable. We hope this brings some measure of closure to the victim’s family.”

The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office reiterated its commitment to aggressively pursuing individuals involved in trafficking dangerous narcotics within the community.