Tragedy Strikes New York Nursery: Owner and Tenant Arrested After Child's Death

In a heart-wrenching incident, a one-year-old boy lost his life, and three other youngsters fell seriously ill due to suspected fentanyl exposure at a nursery in New York City. The recent arrests of the nursery owner and a building tenant have sent shockwaves through the community.

Suspicion Arises

This somber development unfolded when four children, aged between eight months and two years, displayed symptoms of a potential opioid overdose after their time at Divino Nino in the Bronx. Astonishingly, this occurred shortly after the facility had successfully passed a city inspection.

One-year-old Nicholas Dominici tragically did not survive, while the prompt administration of the overdose-reversing drug Narcan saved the lives of the other three affected children.

Arrests Follow Discovery

The authorities wasted no time, arresting Grei Mendez, the owner of the nursery, and Carlisto Acevedo Brito, a tenant in the building. Charges include depraved indifference murder, assault, and criminal possession of narcotics, notably fentanyl. Mendez has claimed ignorance regarding the presence of this potent drug on her premises.

A Shocking Discovery

A police search of the nursery yielded a taped package containing thousands of dollars' worth of fentanyl and a kilo press, a device used for drug packaging. To make matters more alarming, the drugs were found in close proximity to a mat where the children had been resting.

Further Evidence

Additional evidence emerged as investigators found a second drug press in Brito's adjoining room. The nursery had only opened earlier this year and had successfully passed inspections, including a surprise visit just days before the incident.

Community Concerns

Residents had voiced concerns about the nursery, suspecting it may have concealed illicit activities. One resident noted the absence of children attending the daycare for an entire year, prompting suspicions that something was amiss.

A Heartfelt Tribute

Nicholas Dominici's parents, Zoila Dominici and Otoniel Feliz, mourn the loss of their beloved son. They described him as an intelligent and loving child who endeared himself to everyone who knew him.

Fentanyl's Menace

New York City has been grappling with a surge in opioid-related deaths, primarily linked to fentanyl, a synthetic opioid many times more potent than heroin.

Mayor's Call to Action

Mayor Eric Adams, in a press conference, emphasized the gravity of Nicholas's tragic death as a stark reminder of the city's ongoing battle against opioids. He warned of the extreme danger fentanyl poses to both adults and children.

Investigation Underway

The city's medical examiner is diligently investigating the cause of Nicholas's untimely death, as the community mourns the loss of a young life and grapples with the implications of this tragic incident.