The tragic death of 2-year-old Ezekiel Xavier Rivera has shed light on the distressing surge in fentanyl-related overdoses among young children. Ezekiel’s father, Raul Rivera, now faces a first-degree murder charge in connection with his son’s death, as well as a felony count of child cruelty for exposing his other son, 3-year-old Ermias, to the drug. The incident occurred in Bakersfield, Kern County, California.
Ezekiel’s mother, Soluna Lora, had left the toddler with his father while she took their older son for a haircut. Upon her return, Lora discovered a roll of cash and a baggie of drugs in Rivera’s possession. She demanded to take the children home, but Rivera refused. Two days later, Ezekiel tragically succumbed to acute fentanyl toxicity, while Ermias tested positive for the drug.
The fentanyl crisis has ravaged communities across the country, with adults primarily falling victim to the potent opioid. However, public health experts are increasingly alarmed by the rising number of children under the age of 5 who are dying or testing positive for fentanyl. The number of drug overdoses nationwide has seen a decline, but incidents of children overdosing have surged due to exposure to opioids and accidental ingestion.
According to America’s Poison Centers, there has been a dramatic increase in fentanyl exposure among young children, with 539 reports in 2023 compared to just 10 in 2016. California, in particular, has witnessed the highest number of fentanyl-related deaths, with 6,473 reported in 2022. Preliminary data from the California Department of Public Health reveals that 11 fentanyl-related deaths occurred in children under 5 years old during the first three quarters of 2023.
Experts emphasize the need to protect vulnerable children living in chaotic environments where drugs are present. Dr. Emily Rose, co-author of a study on pediatric and adolescent opioid overdoses, highlights the risk faced by young children who explore their surroundings by putting objects in their mouths. The study also acknowledges the increasing incidence of opioid fatalities among pediatric patients, emphasizing the significant public health challenge posed by opioids.
In response to the alarming trend, state Senator Dave Cortese has authored a bill that calls for monitoring fentanyl-related deaths among children aged 5 and younger in California. The bill aims to develop guidance for local health departments on protecting children from fentanyl exposure and facilitating a multiagency approach in situations involving parents with a history of substance abuse.
Lora, devastated by the loss of her son, is suing Kern County and its Sheriff’s Department, alleging their failure to protect Ezekiel when she pleaded for her children to be removed from Rivera’s home. Rivera, who admitted to using fentanyl in the room where Ezekiel died, is currently facing charges of first-degree murder and child cruelty.
As authorities grapple with finding solutions to prevent young children from becoming victims of fentanyl, the urgency to act swiftly and protect the most vulnerable members of society becomes increasingly apparent. The devastating consequences of fentanyl exposure demand a comprehensive approach to address this pressing public health issue.
