Investigation ongoing, additional charges and suspects possible

An Ironton man was arrested after a baby died and was later found to have illegal drugs in its system.

At approximately 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 7, Ironton Police Detective/Captain Joe Ross, along with Detective/Sergeant Jamie Pruitt, arrested David E. Large, 36, of Ironton. Large is charged with felony child endangerment.

At approximately 10:39 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 27, IPD officers were dispatched to 424 N. Second St., Apt. B, on an infant in cardiac arrest. Officers Katelyn Lawson and Chad Gue responded and began life-saving measures. Lawrence County EMS arrived and the infant was transported to King’s Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, where it was pronounced deceased.

The victim, a 2-year-old male, was then sent to Frankfort, Kentucky for an autopsy, where the toxicology report revealed the presence of illegal drugs in his system.

“Unfortunately, these kids are the biggest victims we have found with this opioid crisis,” Ross said. “This is a prime example of why they become the victims and why this problem needs fixed.”

Ross added that the name of the baby is not being released, and the investigation is ongoing. He also said that the drug found in the baby’s system is not being released at this time. Additional charges may also be added against Large, as well as additional suspects possibly being charged.

“These kinds of cases are hard on the first responders and police officers that have to deal with these situations,” Ross said. “It’s a tough case, but we’re glad that we were able to make an arrest.”

The Ironton Police Department was assisted by the Ironton Fire Department, Lawrence County EMS, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, the Lawrence County Coroner’s Office and the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office.

The Ironton Police Department also asks that anyone with information relating to this case, please contact the department at 740-532-5606.