Father charged in 9-month-old daughter's overdose death

The 9-month-old baby girl was sleeping beside her father, Albert Gaines, in an apartment at 207 Westcroft Drive on Nov. 15, when the child became unresponsive, according to warrants. She was pronounced dead at WakeMed in Raleigh.

According to toxicology reports released Monday, the baby died from having narcotics in her system. Investigators now believe the child got access to and ingested heroin mixed with the synthetic opioid, fentanyl.

"We take these types of cases very seriously. And especially when it involves a child, an infant, who doesn't know the difference. Parents have a responsibility to make sure their children are protected," said Capt. Joe Binns. "It's a heartbreaking story all the way around."

Gaines is charged with felony child abuse and the child's mother, Lacrystal Mcclain is also facing drug-related charges.

"Mr. Gaines is doing everything he can to cope with the loss of his child at this point. We'll look into the case more, but at this point that's the primary focus, the loss of his daughter," said James Little, his defense attorney.

Both are in jail on a $500,000 bond. Investigators say it’s likely both could face more charges.