FENTANYL KILLS - Tyler Harness's Story - episode 261

Brenda Maynard of Florida shares the story of her only child, Tyler Harness, a kind, intuitive, and talented young man who died from fentanyl poisoning in September 2021 at the age of 24. Raised by Brenda as a single mother, Tyler overcame a turbulent childhood marked by his father's drug use and absence, growing into a hardworking and loving man with a heart of gold. He found success in the trades and worked as a corrections officer in Florida before relocating to Missouri in hopes of reconnecting with his father and continuing his career. Just days after moving, Tyler died after meeting with an old childhood friend—someone he trusted—who was later implicated in unrelated drug charges. Brenda recounts the painful aftermath: the discovery of factory-reset electronics, missing belongings, questionable behavior by those present, and what she feels was a dismissive police investigation. Toxicology reports revealed only marijuana and a low but lethal amount of fentanyl in Tyler’s system—substances she firmly believes he did not knowingly take. Brenda, who works in substance abuse recovery, emphasizes the importance of breaking stigma around drug-related deaths, reminding us that victims like Tyler—sons, workers, loved ones—are not who society often assumes they are. His loss has left an unfillable void, and Brenda continues to advocate for awareness, accountability, and compassion. To use this or any other Texas Pictures documentary at high schools or in other educational applications, contact Texas Pictures through our website at www.texas-pictures.com. If you have a story you'd like to share, learn more about the process and reach out to us at our website - https://www.texas-pictures.com/Share.... Naloxone, the active ingredient in 4mg Narcan and higher dose 8mg Kloxxado, along with many generic versions, can reverse an opioid overdose if administered quickly enough. Some areas have Naloxone available for free. Google it. In the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org/chat to connect with a caring counselor.