Pennsylvania Mother Sentenced for Attempted Murder of Daughter Amid Drug-Induced Delusions

In a harrowing case that underscores the intersection of mental health crises and the opioid epidemic, a Pennsylvania mother has been sentenced to up to 20 years in prison for attempting to kill her 6-year-old daughter by administering fentanyl. The mother, 32-year-old Skye Naggy, pleaded guilty but mentally ill to multiple charges, including attempted homicide, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and endangering the welfare of a child.

A Mother’s Descent into Delusion

On October 25, 2022, authorities discovered Naggy and her daughter in a wooded area near the Loyalhanna Dam in Westmoreland County. Naggy had taken her daughter there, believing they were being pursued by a serial killer—a belief later attributed to drug-induced hallucinations. She administered fentanyl to her daughter in what she claimed was an attempt to “protect” them from the imagined threat.

Family members had previously reported receiving disturbing letters from Naggy, in which she detailed plans to “protect” her daughter, requested fentanyl, and made arrangements for personal items following their deaths. These letters, coupled with the discovery of a Bible at the scene, painted a picture of a woman in the throes of a severe mental health crisis.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

Naggy’s plea of guilty but mentally ill acknowledges her culpability while also recognizing her compromised mental state at the time of the offense. The court sentenced her to a term of 10 to 20 years in prison, reflecting the severity of her actions and the need for accountability.

Broader Implications

This case highlights the devastating impact of untreated mental illness and substance abuse. It underscores the importance of accessible mental health care and the need for vigilance in recognizing and addressing signs of psychological distress.

The opioid crisis continues to ravage communities across the nation, with fentanyl—a synthetic opioid significantly more potent than heroin—playing a central role in overdose deaths. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching consequences of this epidemic, extending beyond addiction to encompass tragic acts borne of desperation and delusion.

Support and Resources

For those struggling with mental health issues or substance abuse, help is available. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a confidential helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), providing 24/7 support and resources for individuals and families in need.

As communities grapple with the dual challenges of mental health crises and the opioid epidemic, this case serves as a poignant call to action for comprehensive support systems and proactive intervention strategies.