Michigan woman charged with open murder after death of family member in hospice care
Authorities say the victim was given a fatal overdose of morphine
ADRIAN, Mich. (News 10) - A Lenawee County woman has been arraigned on open murder charges after allegedly giving a fatal overdose to a family member in hospice care.
The Adrian Police Department announced Thursday 58-year-old Virginia Stewart of Adrian has been charged with one count of open murder after the death of 61-year-old Frances Stewart.
Authorities say Virginia Stewart allegedly removed the victim’s oxygen mask and administered an overdose of morphine.
Police officials previously said officers were called to the home around 1:30 p.m. Monday for a reported civil complaint involving an unwanted person, police said.
Responding officers spoke with several witnesses and discovered a dead hospice patient inside the home. Witnesses told officers they saw the family member — later identified as Stewart — intentionally give the overdose.
Stewart’s bond has been set at $2 million and her next court date has been scheduled for June 18.
Authorities are asking anyone who knows something about the case to call the Adrian Police Department at 517-264-4808 or submit information via email at APDTips@adrianmi.gov.
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