By Alex — Oct 25, 2025
Riverview, FL (33578) — A woman was arrested after Hillsborough County deputies say she gave her three young children NyQuil and led them to a neighborhood pond late at night, where she allegedly tried to drown them.
Neighbors reported hearing screams and called 911. Deputies arrived and pulled the three minors from the water. All three were taken to Tampa General Hospital and are expected to survive, authorities said.
Sheriff Chad Chronister called the incident “a deliberate act” and said the quick response likely saved the children’s lives. Officials recovered NyQuil at the residence and toxicology testing is ongoing.
The mother is in custody and faces three counts of attempted murder, the sheriff’s office said. Investigators are continuing to interview witnesses and process evidence.
Community members expressed shock. Nearby resident Marissa Lopez said, “We heard screams and saw officers pulling kids from the water — it was heartbreaking.”
Authorities warned about the dangers of giving over-the-counter sleep aids to children without medical guidance and urged anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to report it immediately.
Resources:
– Florida Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873
– Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
– Tampa Family Support Services: www.tfssfl.org
Update log:
– 11:45 AM — Mother in custody, charged with three counts of attempted murder.
– 12:10 PM — Children reported stable at Tampa General Hospital.
– 1:20 PM — NyQuil recovered from the residence; toxicology testing ongoing.