Beltrami County ( trfnews.i234.me ) – A Bemidji woman is facing serious charges in connection with a drug overdose death. According to court documents, Crystal Leah Cloud has been charged with third-degree murder.
On December 26, 2022, at about 12:16 a.m., police were called to a home on Minnesota Avenue in Bemidji. Officers found a deceased woman at the scene. She was discovered holding a snort tube and a lighter in one hand and tin foil with burnt residue in the other.
The medical examiner later determined the victim died from the toxic effects of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Investigators allege Cloud sold the drugs that led to the fatal overdose.
The charge of third-degree murder in Minnesota carries a maximum sentence of up to 25 years in prison. Authorities have not yet announced a trial date.
The case highlights the ongoing crisis surrounding fentanyl and other synthetic opioids across Minnesota. Public health officials continue to warn that fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, increasing the risk of fatal overdoses.
Community groups in Bemidji and statewide agencies have been working to expand access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. Officials encourage anyone struggling with addiction to seek help through treatment programs and hotlines.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
