Woman charged with murder for drug overdose death

Released today by the GCPD

Lawrenceville, Ga., Oct. 26, 2026) – Gwinnett County Police detectives have arrested a woman following an investigation into a fatal overdose that occurred earlier this month.

On October 13, officers responded to a residence in the 1100 block of Wetlands Court in Lawrenceville regarding an overdose. The victim was pronounced deceased.

Investigators with the Special Investigations Section responded and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the overdose. During the investigation, detectives identified 48-year-old Tanika Tavares as the suspected source of narcotics connected to the victim’s death.

Detectives continued the investigation and subsequently took Tavares into custody.

Tavares has been charged with Felony Murder, Aggravated Involuntary Manslaughter by Causing Fentanyl Overdose Death, Sale of a Schedule I or II Controlled Substance, and additional drug-related offenses.