Eight-Year-Old Boy Dies After Eating Crystal Meth Thinking It Was Cereal

An eight-year-old boy has died after reportedly ingesting more than 180 times the lethal dose of crystal meth after mistaking it for breakfast cereal.

Curtis Collman III allegedly mistook his father's stash of drugs for cereal after finding it on a plate and, according to a toxicology report, consumed enough to easily kill a grown man.

The incident took place in Jackson, Indiana, on June 21^st and led to the arrest of the boy's father, Curtis Collman II. He was later charged with neglect of a dependent causing death, as well as firearms and theft charges. He also had other charges outstanding relating to his alleged failure to register as a sex offender.

The young boy's 41-year-old father did not immediately call for the emergency services once he realised what had happened to his son. He called over a friend when he noticed that his son was ill.

Upon that friend's arrival, he reportedly said, "I'm not going back to jail" and then threatened to kill himself, his son, and the friend using his gun. He then transported his son, who was by that time experiencing convulsions and seizures, to his parents' house.

The boy's grandparents then called for the emergency services, but it was too late to save Curtis Jr.

Jackson Police Detective Tom Barker said: "Anybody that is a parent, you know, would be emotionally upset. It kind of hits home if you have kids.

"An eight-year-old child more than likely suffered for many hours. It upsets you."

It has been reported on News4jax that Collman II recently requested that his bail bond be reduced in order for him to spend more time at home with his parents whilst he is awaiting trial.

If he is found guilty, he will be looking at a sentence of between 20 and 40 years in prison. The trial will begin later this year on December 4^th.

That said, the prosecutors will seek for a longer sentence, given the nature of the crime. They are asking the judge to consider a 50-year sentence for him.

Jackson County Chief Deputy Prosecutor Jeffrey Chalfant said: "Fifty years would be nice."

However, he also described the situation as "tragic" and told the Seymour Tribune: "Mr. Collman is presumed innocent of all charges unless and until he is convicted after a trial.

"Please remember this family in your prayers and hug your children tonight."

Featured Image Credit: News4Jax

Topics: Death, Police, US News, Drugs

Tom Wood

Tom Wood is a freelance journalist and LADbible contributor. He graduated from University of London with a BA in Philosophy before studying for a Masters in Journalism at the University of Salford. He has previously written for the M.E.N Group as well as working for several top professional sports clubs. Contact him on [email protected]

@TPWagwim