Ocean County Mother Faces Charges in Toddler’s Tragic Death
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July 24, 2025Ocean County Mother Faces Charges in Toddler’s Tragic Death
2-year-old daughter died with methadone in her system
After her 2-year-old daughter passed away with methadone in her system, an Ocean Gate mother was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, with other charges pending, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.
According to prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, on the morning of July 17, 32-year-old Jenna O'Connor contacted 911 after discovering her child unconscious in her crib.
According to Billhimer, the toddler was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick for additional care after being transported to Community Medical Center in critical condition.
On July 21, the child passed away, according to Billhimer. According to him, tests conducted while she was in the hospital revealed that the child had methadone in her system.
According to Billhimer, the investigation revealed that O'Connor was at home and in charge of the child's care from July 16 to 17. The child also had access to methadone in her home.
On July 22, she was arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of a child and taken to Ocean County Jail, where she is currently awaiting a hearing on her detention.
“While the death of this baby is tragic, the investigation remains active and ongoing and additional charges may be forthcoming,” Prosecutor Billhimer noted.
